“What are you thinking?” Wonyoung asks and Mingyu turns to her, a soft smile on his lips as he studies the features of Wonyoung’s face. He raises his hand to slide her bangs behind her ear, and she giggles. Mingyu knows she’s sensitive there.

“I’ve missed you,” Mingyu says, sighing and she purses her lips. “Me too,” she presses her forehead against his, shutting her eyes Wonyoung smells the same as she did two years ago A little sweet with a hint of lime. Mingyu’s yet to figure out if it’s her perfume or shampoo

Either way, he’s always loved the way she smelled. “Sorry about before,” Wonyoung opens her eyes, “we kissed and..” she bites her lip, turning a bright shade of red. Mingyu smiles. “Heat of the moment, right?” Mingyu whispers and Wonyoung huffs, smiling shyly

They stare into each others eyes, exchanging a million little words and emotions It’s always been this way for them. Mingyu and Wonyoung have always understood each other. There was never any need for words. “I didn’t know,” Wonyoung says

Mingyu smiles. “If I knew, I’d have come running,” Wonyoung says, teary eyed. Mingyu shakes his head, “don’t think about it, hm?” Wonyoung’s a frontline journalist and an activist. It had always been her dream.

A few months before Mingyu’s accident, Wonyoung was given the opportunity to go to Afghanistan and other countries with her Human Rights Organisation Mingyu opposed it, worried about her safety. It caused a rift in their relationship and, well….

“With what happened last year, communication became an issue. We were unharmed but we were under strict watch. We couldn’t risk sending letters or calling—“ Mingyu shushes her, “Won, you don’t have to explain yourself to me,”

Wonyoung sighs, lowering her gaze. “Us along with other organisations were allowed to leave the country after negotiations between the Governments. I came back to Seoul last week. I…I wanted to call you, but I never got a reply to my letter so I assumed.. you didn’t want me,”

Mingyu frowns, “letter? What letter? I never got one..” Wonyoung’s face shifts, “what? I sent one a month after I…after I left. I never heard a reply so I assumed you didn’t want to talk to me after everything that happened. And I…” Wonyoung sighs, “Mingyu, I—“

Mingyu takes her hand and kisses her knuckles, “don’t think about it. I’m not blaming you or anything, okay? I’m just glad you’re back,” Wonyoung’s gaze softens and she exhales gently, “I…what now?” Mingyu swallows. Yeah. What now? He’s been thinking that for a while now

What now? What now that he has recollected his memories? What now that he has been reunited with his one true love, Wonyoung? What now that Mingyu can leave the hospital? “I…I wanna go home,” Mingyu says, fingers trembling a little. Wonyoung notices and rubs his fingers

“We can do that,” she hops off the bed and tugs at Mingyu’s hand. He hesitates to stand up and she smiles. “I know it’s daunting. This place was your home for 18 months. So many memories, so many friends, right?” Mingyu gulps, tearing up, “so many..” he whispers

Wonyoung cups his cheeks gently, “are you afraid?” Mingyu gulps, “very,” She smiles with her eyes, tiptoeing and hugging him tight, “what are you afraid of?” Mingyu hugs her back He takes deep inhales and exhales “I just…” An image of a certain person flashes in his mind

Mingyu’s heart twists uncomfortably in his chest and he pulls Wonyoung close. “Won-ah, what are we?” He asks, anxious. Wonyoung hums, “we can be anything you wants us to be,” her hands roam Mingyu’s broad back, squeezing and patting , reassuring him

Mingyu’s heart beats loudly in his chest. There’s so much uncertainty facing him. Wonyoung probably doesn’t know about… Wonwoo. Mingyu doesn’t have the heart to tell her. He doesn’t know how she’ll react when he tells her he accidentally fell in love with a man

But underneath it all, it was always Wonyoung, right? The only reason he fell for Wonwoo… was… Wonyoung “What do you want, Gyu?” She pulls away and Mingyu gulps. “I wanna go home,” She grins. She laces their hands and tugs, “come on, let’s go home,” Home Finally

~~~~~~~~~~ It’s surprising just how much of an effect Dongho has on Wonwoo, even after his departure from this realm Because when Wonwoo wakes up, the thought that crosses his mind is : Day 9 without Dongho Wonwoo turns to his side to find Nero asleep, curled into his side

Wonwoo takes a deep breath, letting his fingers idly comb through Nero’s fur, making the latter purr loudly. Even after Dongho’s passing, Wonwoo’s routine is going to remain the same He’s going to get up and…go to the hospital. Only, Dongho isn’t going to be there

It’s time to start the day — Once dressed, Wonwoo heads down to the lobby “My answer is still no, Hansol-ah,” Wonwoo says Hansol groans on the phone, “Hyung. You just had one chapter left! We can’t publish the book without it. So just hand over the manuscript to us, please,”

Wonwoo sighs, tightening his hold on his phone. “Sorry, Hansol-ah. I can’t do that. Please try to talk to the director about this,” Wonwoo says, walking out his apartment building. There, he sees the cab he had booked. Hansol only sighs as Wonwoo gets into the cab.

“Fine,” Hansol says, “but you’re going to have to talk to the Director later too, okay?” “I understand,” Wonwoo says. “Alright then,” Hansol says, and Wonwoo’s about to cut the call when — “Hyung,” Hansol calls and Wonwoo hums, “yeah?”

“Are you okay?” Hansol asks, and all of a sudden, all and any noise dies down, leaving Wonwoo in a state of silence. He takes a deep breath, “Yeah I am fine. I’ll talk to you later,” “Okay. Take care, Hyung,” Hansol says and cuts the call

Wonwoo holds his phone against his ear for a few seconds and then lets his hand drop, eyes peering out the window As tears begin to build, he shuts his eyes, vowing to not open till he reaches the hospital

— Wonwoo feels several eyes looking at him as he walks down the familiar hospital hallway They must all be wondering why he’s here even though his has companion passed away already Wonwoo tries not to let those gazes faze him. He turns the corner and walks into the room

He finds the nurses checking up on the patient, Mingyu. When they notice Wonwoo’s presence, their expressions fall and they usher out of the room in silence — pity evident in their gaze. Wonwoo smirks. Everyone in the hospital probably knows what went down with Wonwoo

Not only did his lover die, Wonwoo also managed to send someone into an indefinite coma Wonwoo’s hands tremble and he pats his chest lightly, reassuring himself that this is okay. He’s allowed to be here. He’s here to.. read to Mingyu.

Wonwoo pulls a chair and settles down beside the bed, eyes studying Mingyu’s face. The bruises have subsided, and so have the scars Mingyu looks like he’s sleeping, his chest rising and falling gently. Wonwoo sits in silence for a while, unsure of what to do, how to proceed

“You should introduce yourself to him,” a voice says, and Wonwoo turns around to see Mirae leaning against the door frame Wonwoo swallows, “Ajhumma,” Mirae Ajhumma and Dongho were friends. They spent every day with each other.

Wonwoo hasn’t had the chance to talk to her after everything that happened Mirae doesn’t utter a single word and leaves just like that. Wonwoo purses his lips and turns to Mingyu. “Hi,” he clears his throat, “I’m…I’m Jeon Wonwoo and I…”

“And I hit you with my car,” It’s daunting to confess to even a person who’s sleeping “I have something of yours, a Pendant. And I want to return it to you and apologise to you once you wake up,” Mingyu doesn’t respond of course

Wonwoo exhales shakily “Until you wake up, I will..” Wonwoo opens his book and flips through the pages, “I will read to you till you wake up, Mingyu-ssi. I promise,” Maybe then, Wonwoo can move on from this chapter to his life He parts his lips and speaks, “today’s poem is..”

A/N : To clarify, yes those poems were written by Dongho (for the purpose of this fic ofc haha. Otherwise, all credit to the OG creators!)

— Distance makes the heart grow fonder Perhaps Mingyu’s a chronic patient of this quote because even though he has his life back on track, even though he’s surrounded by loved ones, even though he has been pursuing his passion — he feels empty because of Wonwoo’s absence

It has been a month since Mingyu decides to move on from that chapter of his life To leave behind memories of the hospital and get back to civilisation, to his real life and friends and work But he can’t get Wonwoo out of his mind

There are still a lot of unanswered questions in his mind All he knows is that it was Wonwoo that… hit him that day, and essentially put Mingyu in a 18 month long coma Put Mingyu out of society, stole 18 months of his life, not to forget the 6 months he spent in the hospital

Mingyu has a lot to blame Wonwoo for For not telling him the truth, for hitting him, for ruining his life Mingyu was furious initially, he despised how the circumstances had played out. He despised that he fell in love with the man who put him in the hospital

And he hates the fact that his heart continues to long for that very man For his gentle voice and adorable smile For his habit to push his glasses up his nose, or his tendency to slouch, like what is up with his back? “Chef!” Someone yells and Mingyu turns around

The noise from his busy kitchen pours into the silent bubble he was in, making him snap back to reality. “What is it?” Mingyu asks as he slides the mussels into the pan. He adds cognac to it , stepping aside as it lights on fire.

“Jeonghan Hyung is here to see you,” Seungkwan informs as Joshua ushers to his side, “Mingyu-yah, I’ve got this, you go ahead,” he says, trying to take the pan from Mingyu’s hand But Mingyu retreats his hand, “No I’ve got it,” he says, not allowing Joshua to take over

Joshua doesn’t say anything, but his and Seungkwan’s glances send a clear message Mingyu’s always had trouble letting others take control And it caused him a lot of stress “Right,” Mingyu clears his throat and hands Joshua the pan, “just uh—“ “I’ve got it,” Shua smiles

Mingyu purses his lips and nods, “alright,” He undoes his apron and leaves the kitchen to go find Jeonghan. — “So, how does it feel to be back?” Jeonghan asks, taking a sip of his wine. Mingyu looks around the dining area, smiling, “I don’t know,”

“I don’t know?” Jeonghan frowns, “I was sure you were going to say you’re happier than ever,” Mingyu smiles, lowering his gaze, “I thought so too but…it’s not the same,” Jeonghan hums, “it’s cuz you’ve had a long break. You’ll bounce back in no time,”

Maybe. Maybe not The zeal that Mingyu once possessed is missing Cooking feels like a chore now — a chore he can’t help but do, not out of interest but out of obligation This place he built from scratch feels foreign to him. The people he worked with? strangers

“How are you enjoying your suspension?” Mingyu asks, “I thought you wouldn’t want to see me,” Jeonghan rolls his eyes, “what I did, I did on my own and not because you told me to. I have to take responsibility,” Mingyu smiles. “Have you spoken to Seungcheol Hyung?”

That seems to be a sore spot because Jeonghan momentarily pauses and then averts his gaze, “no,” Mingyu purses his lips. He feels responsible for that too. “I’ve apologised to him. But he owes me an apology too. He behaved like a dick the entire time,”

Mingyu laughs, “I guess so,” Jeonghan nods, “he’s been quite a hothead lately. He even hit Won—“ Jeonghan stops himself before uttering that name but Mingyu catches onto it, tensing. Jeonghan takes another sip and Mingyu sighs.

“Have you spoken to Wonwoo?” Mingyu speaks up, and hates how the name feels almost foreign on his lips Jeonghan nods, “Yeah,” Mingyu’s eyes light up, “how is he?” Jeonghan cocks a brow, “why? Still in love with him?” Mingyu’s face falls and he shrinks in his chair, “no I..”

“No what?” “I was never in love with him. I was in love with the idea of him that reminded me of Wonyoung,” a Jeonghan raises his brows, as if impressed by the realisation. He takes a deep breath, “Wonwoo’s fine. Or not. I don’t know. We don’t talk as much,”

Mingyu swallows thickly “How’s Wonyoung?” “She’s good. Like me, she’s getting back to the society as well, you know. She has night terrors sometimes, but she’s fine mostly,” Jeonghan hums, “so you’re back together?” That would be logical. That’s how it should be but..

“No,” Mingyu says, “not yet,” Jeonghan nods, dropping the topic effectively. Silence befalls them as their food arrives. “Hyung I…can you tell me about Wonwoo?” Mingyu finally dares to ask. Jeonghan stares at him, as if wondering if he should tell Mingyu. He sighs “Ok”

— “Boss,” Seungkwan calls as Mingyu enters the kitchen, “Hyung!” But Seungkwan’s cries fall in deaf ears as Mingyu walks across the kitchen and into his office Mingyu heads of the wash basin, splashing some water on his face before staring into the mirror “Dongho, huh,”

Mingyu splashes some more water onto his face, and again, and again, till his tears become one with the water that trickles down his cheeks “Fuck,” he curses, wiping his face with the towel as he recalls Jeonghan’s story, as he recalls Mirae’s words that finally make sense

Mingyu stumbles onto his chair and places his face in his hands, letting it collect the tears he sheds, like a grade schooler “Fuck, you’ve been through so much, Won,” Mingyu utters, unable to hold back his tears Since when was he a cry baby?

“Idiot,” Mingyu curses, “fucking idiot, Jeon Wonwoo!” He yells, “why did you keep it all to yourself?” And for once, Mingyu let’s himself cry openly “I…fucking hate you, Jeon Wonwoo,” he sobs.

~~~~ As Wonwoo approaches the room, he sees Jeonghan Hyung practically storming out of there. Wonwoo doesn’t get a chance to call out to him so he simply walks into the room, only to get startled by Seungcheol sitting there. Before Wonwoo can speak up, Seungcheol turns

“Oh, sorry,” Wonwoo tries to leave but Seungcheol clicks his tongue, “it’s okay just..come in,” he sighs. However awkward as it may be, Wonwoo chooses to go inside and take a seat beside Mingyu’s bed. He sits in silence, a little scared of the man beside him.

“Jeonghan Hyung seemed pretty mad,” Wonwoo states and Seungcheol scoffs, “yeah. I think I might get dumped soon,” Wonwoo purses his lips. “We were fighting about you, actually. So if I get dumped, you’re to blame,” Wonwoo tenses, “I see,” Seungcheol exhales.

“I’m sorry about your lover,” Seungcheol says, surprising Wonwoo. “Thank you,” Wonwoo bows. Seungcheol sighs, turning to Mingyu. Seungcheol doesn’t look like he’s planning on leaving anytime soon. So Wonwoo just opens his book to read. “Have you been coming here everyday?”

Wonwoo nods, “yeah. To read to Mingyu-ssi,” Seungcheol scoffs, “the idiot hated reading, or listening,” Wonwoo’s eyes widen. A tiny piece of information about the man he visits everyday. Wonwoo…wants to know more

“Can you tell me what Mingyu-ssi is like?” Wonwoo requests, and Seungcheol smirks, not in the mood to spew hurtful words at Wonwoo. “Well, he hated reading for sure,” Wonwoo smiles. “He took two years to read a book Wonyoung suggested to him,” “Wonyoung?”

Seungcheol’s expression falls, “Wonyoung is…was Mingyu’s lover, since college,” Wonwoo’s eyes widen “Where..is Wonyoung now?” Wonwoo has been coming here every day for a month now — and he has yet to come across a Wonyoung. Where are they?

Seungcheol swallows and shrugs, “I dont know,” his voice shakes. This Wonyoung person must’ve been important to him… “Were you all close?” Seungcheol smiles, “Wonyoung, Mingyu and I have been friends since college. We were very close. Mingyu and Wonyoung… were in love,”

Wonwoo can’t help but notice how Seungcheol tenses at the last part “And now, Mingyu’s in a coma and Wonyoung’s nowhere to be found and I’m here — all alone, waiting for my friends to come back to me,” A wave of guilt surges through Wonwoo and he gulps

“I—“ Seungcheol laughs, “had you paid attention to the road, perhaps Mingyu wouldn’t be here. Perhaps I’d know where Wonyoung is. Perhaps, you would’ve been able to see your lover one last time,” Wonwoo’s eyes widen as a painful pang emerges in his chest.

Seungcheol stands up and leaves, with nothing more to say. And Wonwoo it’s there, stewing in guilt and regret. He turns to Mingyu, pursing his lips, “Will you be able to forgive me when you wake up?” he asks, scared for the future

— 2 months later — “Ah, pride and prejudice. A classic” Mingyu says, pulling the book out of the shelf. It takes Wonyoung by surprise, and she squints suspiciously at Mingyu, “I thought you hated reading,” Mingyu licks his lips and shrugs, “it’s not so bad,”

Wonyoung smiles and turns back around, walking down the aisle as her eyes rake through the book titles Mingyu follows her silently, hands behind his back. “Are you not needed at the Restaurant today?” Wonyoung asks and Mingyu swallows, “uh, no,”

Now that Mingyu remembers everything from before the accident, he’s been trying to make an active effort to better himself. Wonyoung and Mingyu broke up over the fact that Mingyu was far too consumed by his work and that it was stressing him out.

The trigger was Mingyu’s yearly check up which showed that he was prone to high blood pressure and other cardiovascular diseases if he continues on with his stressful lifestyle Wonyoung and Mingyu fought — Mingyu prioritised his prison over his health and Wonyoung walked away

He’s been so consumed by his work that relinquishing control of his kitchen to someone as capable as Joshua terrified him, adding to his stress But now… Mingyu wants to be better. Not just for Wonyoung but for himself. That’s why he’s stepped back from the restaurant a bit

Wonyoung seems to have picked up on his train of thought and smiles. “That’s great. Well done, Mingyu-yah,” she tiptoes to ruffle his hair and Mingyu giggles. Wonyoung continues to walk down the aisle, still exploring the shelves. Mingyu sighs. She’s a lot frailer now

Mingyu hasn’t asked Wonyoung about her time in Afghanistan yet because she’s oddly cagey about it. But it’s clear that the conditions weren’t good there. She’s lost weight, her smile doesn’t come as naturally as it used to and… she’s been a little distant

And yet, she never has any complaints about her like of work and continues to better herself. Mingyu feels obligated to speak up, “Won-ah, you should take care of yourself, hm?” He grabs her arm, his fingers wholly wrapping around the fragile limb, “I’m worried,”

Wonyoung smiles, taking her arm out of Mingyu’s grasp, “I’ll be fine,” she says, “I’ve been offered to go abroad but I’ve chosen not to. I’m worried about my health too,” Mingyu’s relieved to hear that and she smiles.

“Thanks for worrying about me, Mingyu-yah. It’s nice to have someone worry about me,” she giggles Wonyoung’s parents died in a fire long ago. She has no other family. Naturally, over the years, Seungcheol and Mingyu became her family. Of course they worry about her

‘Its nice to have someone worry about me’ Mingyu swallows as Wonwoo’s name comes to mind. Wonwoo’s…alone too, isn’t he? He has no family, Dongho’s gone and… Who worries about Wonwoo? How is he? Is he eating well? Sleeping well?

Why does Mingyu keep thinking of Wonwoo? Wonwoo’s gone. They’ve parted ways. Mingyu’s back to his life, he’s back with his friends and family Wonwoo shouldn’t even be in his mind but somehow he is even though what Mingyu felt for him was all fake

“There’s something on your mind, isn’t it?” Wonyoung asks, and Mingyu bites his lip There is. He’s worried that he can’t get back to cooking without stressing himself out. He’s worried he’s going to be a man without passion.

And he knows he cannot balance his health with his passion. It just scares him. Mingyu shakes his head. He can’t bring himself to open up to the people he loved anymore. Wonyoung shrugs and walks away, choosing not to pester Mingyu about it

If Wonwoo were here, he’d probably be able to give Mingyu a middle ground. Perhaps something like taking up the profession of a private chef, or catering Mingyu halts and Wonyoung turns, “Hm?” Mingyu smiles “Just remembered that I confessed to you in a library,” he deflects

A soft blush creeps up on Wonyoung’s cheeks “Right,” she clears her throat, looking oh so adorable Mingyu smiles. He takes her hand, making her gasp. This..feels right. He wants this. “Wonyoung-ah, can I buy you a drink sometime?”

~~~~ Wonwoo halts outside Mingyu’s room when he hears voices from inside It’s Jeonghan and Seungcheol “You can’t be serious, Cheollie. There’s no postage stamp either! How are you going to find her?” Jeonghan argues

“I don’t know!” Seungcheol yells, “but I need to! I need to find her!” “Why?! You know she’s safe! She’s alive! Why do you need to—“ “I just have to, Jeonghan-ah,” Seungcheol says , “I just..” “You still love her, don’t you?” “Just shut it, Yoon Jeonghan!”

“You can’t even deny it, can you? Why are you even dating me, Choi Seungcheol? Isn’t it time we end this? This was never real, atleast not from your side,” “Hannie—“ Wonwoo sucks behind a corner as footsteps approach the door

Ducks*

He peeks out the corner to see Jeonghan storm out of Mingyu’s room with Seungcheol on his tail. Yikes Seems complicated Once they’ve gone, Wonwoo makes his way to Mingyu’s room. From what he heard, they’re probably going to break up.

Wonwoo walks in and softly shuts the door behind him He pulls a chair for him to sit on and get on with his daily routine when a letter catches his eye Opened and placed beside Mingyu Wonwoo knows it’s not his place but curiosity gets the better of him

He picks up the piece of paper and begins to read “To Mingyu,” Wonwoo gasps “I’ve reached my camp fine and well. How are you? I’m fine and hope you are too. Truth is, I didn’t know if I should even send this letter in the first place considering how things ended between us”

This must be Mingyu’s ex lover “I’ve loved you for many years now, and it pained me to see you in that state of suffering,” Something in Wonwoo’s heart aches “It was hard for me to help you. I felt helpless as your health began to deteriorate,” Wonwoo swallows. This..

“I didn’t want to leave. I wanted to stay by your side and support your dream. But somehow we couldn’t work this out. We’ve known each other a long time, as friends and as lovers, so I want you to know it was really difficult for me to walk away from everything, from us,”

Wonwoo takes deep breaths. He glances at Mingyu, who has no idea about what’s happening. He doesn’t even know how much he’s- “I’m sorry, my love,” Wonwoo decides to read out, so Mingyu can hear, “I’m sorry I left you like that, like a coward. I should have fought harder for us,”

Wonwoo’s voice begins to tremble “What I regret the most is that—“ Wonwoo gasps, eyes brimming with tears for some reason, “what I regret the most is that not getting to see you one last time before I left,”

A tear trickles down Wonwoo’s cheek as the words become blurry He soldiers through his tears “I’m sorry,” Wonwoo says, “I’m so sorry, that things happened the way they did,”

“I’m sorry that I hurt you, Mingyu-yah. I miss you ….” A sob escapes his lips, “everyday. And I…I want you to know that I…” Why is he crying? Why can’t he stop crying?? Why does it hurt?

“I love you, with all my heart. And it has been my biggest regret to not have been able to say it to you one last time,” Hyung Dongho Hyung Dongho Hyung I…

“I love you. I love you. I’ve loved you… and I wish I could hear you say it back to me one last time. Our separation pains me, because it feels…permanent. I wish things had turned out differently, for the better. I wish…I wish we had more time, my love,”

Wonwoo drops the letter and tries to wipe his tears, but they keep coming and coming “Dongho Hyung,” he sobs, “I miss you, I miss you so much, I love you,” he cries “Did you know I loved you? I hope you did. I love you, Hyung. I love you, I love you..please..say it back”

A/N : does this clarify why Mingyu “remembered” Wonwoo confessing to him?

— 2 months later — Seungcheol doesn’t expect it to be Mingyu standing outside his door at midnight “Oh, hey,” Seungcheol clears his throat and Mingyu smiles. He raises his hand to show Cheol the pack of beers, “can I come in?” Cheol swallows. “Yeah”

For the first 10 minutes or so, the two just sit there, opening a can of beer each and drinking it in silence Truth be told, things haven’t been the same between them since Mingyu got discharged and that entire fiasco Neither can look each other in the eye

That’s why it makes Cheol wonder why Mingyu is even here “I want to start a catering business,” Mingyu says out of nowhere, taking Cheol by surprise “So suddenly?” Cheol clears his throat and Mingyu gulps, “no I’ve been thinking about it for a while now,” he says

“Why catering? What about the restaurant?” Cheol asks “The restaurant, even before the accident, it was stressing me out and the doctor told me it made me susceptible to Hypertension. I’d become too obsessed with my work and even..neglected Wonyoung,”

Right before the accident, Mingyu and Wonyoung fought a lot. They were both busy with work, especially Mingyu. He couldn’t find the right balance and it promoted Wonyoung to prioritise her work too. They inevitably broke up. Their relationship couldn’t stand the pressure

“And why catering?” Cheol asks Mingyu sighs, “I can still cook and it won’t burden me as much. And I can be with Wonyoung as well,” Cheol swallows, “you and Wonyoung are back together now?” Mingyu smiles, “Yeah. It’s been 2 months I guess. It just…it just felt right,”

Cheol licks his lips. “What about Wonwoo?” Mingyu’s heart skips a beat at the mention of that name. But he keeps his composure, “what about him?” Cheol takes a deep breath, “I thought you l—“ “Loved him? No, I didn’t,” Mingyu denies

Cheol purses his lips, “I was going to say ‘like’,” Mingyu freezes, averting his gaze, “like, love, it’s the same,” “You know it’s not—“ “Why are you bringing up Wonwoo, Hyung?” Mingyu questions. “I just..dont want you to jump into anything because you—“

“Respectfully Hyung, I don’t think I need you to interfere in my life anymore,” Mingyu snaps, “I’m not dependant on anyone now, I’m not a kid now!” Mingyu half expects Cheol to fight back but the latter remains silent, surprising Mingyu. His shoulders sag and he sighs

“I should never have interfered in the first place,” he says, voice dripping with guilt. Mingyu doesn’t understand what’s going on. “Is everything—“ “I have something to tell you, Mingyu-yah,” Cheol says and Mingyu straightens. “Yeah?”

Seungcheol falls silent for a moment, as if trying to figure out where to start. “I…I’ve had romantic feelings for Wonyoung, in the past,” And Mingyu’s eyes widen, “w-what?” “It was long ago. Before you guys got together and…I don’t lover her like that now because…”

Mingyu swallows, “because?” Cheol smirks, “because I love someone else,” he confesses, “and because I’ve been such a dick, he won’t even talk to me,” Jeonghan. Mingyu swallows. “Why are you telling me this, Hyung?”

Cheol shakes his head. “Us three have always been like a family. Wonyoung doesn’t have anybody other than us and I’ve grown protective of her. So when you ended up in the Jisoo and she just disappeared, I…I became resentful and…” Cheol closes his eyes

Mingyu listens patiently “Jeonghan thought I was still in love with her and it made things complicated between us. And then…I just…I’m not trying to justify my behaviour in any way. Things I’ve done and said are horrible. I’m just…I’ve hurt a lot of people in the process,”

“I hurt you, Jeonghan and…Wonwoo,” Mingyu gasps “I was really harsh with Wonwoo because I blamed him for everything. I just…I said things to him which I wish I could take back,” Cheol’s voice trembles.

“Wonwoo bore the brunt of everyone’s frustration and yet he…never once fought back, not because he can’t but because he didn’t want to. Wonwoo is…like a lone pillar holding the burden of the world on his shoulders. I’m scared that one day it might break,”

Mingyu shuts his eyes, taking deep breaths. “Wonwoo never said anything. He absorbed all the hate spewed at him. I wonder if he also thinks he’s the one to blame for everything. I just..I want to tell him somehow that he’s not,” Cheol confesses

“I was so determined to protect you that I didn’t realise I hurt the people I loved, like you and ..Jeonghan,” Mingyu swallows “Jeonghan…I want to tell him that what I felt for him was real. I want to apologise to everyone I’ve hurt. Starting from you,”

Mingyu gulps, “Hyung—“ “Please, I…I need this,” Cheol says and clears his throat, “Mingyu-yah, I’m sorry for hiding so many details of your life from you. In the end, you got even more hurt than I could’ve ever envisioned,”

“Hyung—“ “I’m sorry,” Cheol kowtows and Mingyu leaps onto him to prevent him from doing that. He pulls him in for a tight hug, “yah! Are you crazy!?” Cheol doesn’t respond and simply hugs Mingyu back, “can you forgive me, Mingyu-yah?” Mingyu sighs.

It’s true he hated Cheol for certain things but Mingyu experienced first hand how painful recollecting those memories was. Cheol should’ve treated Wonwoo and Jeonghan better — but Mingyu’s not the one to forgive him for that “You should apologise to Jeonghan and Wonwoo first,”

Cheol nods and Mingyu sighs. “I hope you can forgive Wonwoo, Mingyu-yah,” Cheol says and Mingyu gulps. That’s… That’s just… “I..I don’t think I ever even resented him in the first place, Hyung,”

~~~ “You’re still here,” Jeonghan says as he enters the room and finds Wonwoo sitting there Wonwoo hums, checking the time. He hadn’t realised it was 10 pm already. “Yeah,” Wonwoo sighs, “lost track of time,” Jeonghan takes a seat beside him and hands him a juice carton

“Lost track of time doing what?” Jeonghan asks and Wonwoo exhales. “Just…” Wonwoo was just thinking. Or not. He doesn’t remember what he was doing. Only that there was silence as this is probably the first time he’s spoken in atleast four hours Jeonghan hums

“Why are you here?” Wonwoo asks and Jeonghan shrugs, “this brat used to hear me out whenever I fought with Seungcheol so…” Ah. Wonwoo swallows. “Are you guys—“ “We broke up like two months ago,” Yup. On that same day then. They fall silent

“How long have you known Mingyu?” Wonwoo asks. Jeonghan inhales, “as long as Cheol. We used to meet up every now and then,” Wonwoo purses his lips, “I see,” he’s itching to ask one question though, “what about Mingyu-ssi’s lover?”

Jeonghan freezes. He lowers his gaze, “I didn’t make the effort to get to know her much. And I don’t know where she is now, so,” Wonwoo swallows. “Was she…a bad..” Jeonghan scoffs, “no. She was wonderful. Polite, genuine, caring, brave,” he smiles, “just wonderful,”

“But—“ “She was so wonderful in fact that not one but two men were head over heels for her,” There it is. “Seungcheol—“ “I don’t know anymore,” Jeonghan huffs, “he says he doesn’t love her anymore but he keeps thinking about her and…” Jeonghan purses his lips

“And what?” Jeonghan shakes his head, “he’s never once told me he loves me so…” Wonwoo gasps. “So that’s why it makes me wonder if he still has feelings for her,” Jeonghan smiles, a failed attempt to mask his misery

“Was he good listener?” Wonwoo asks, gesturing at Mingyu. Jeonghan smirks, “for someone who couldn’t stop chatting, yeah, he was,” Wonwoo hums, “I can tell,” “Why’s that?” Wonwoo shrugs, “I speak to him sometimes. I feel like he can hear me,”

“What do you say to him?” Jeonghan asks Wonwoo takes a deep breath. “I talk to him about my day. About Nero, about my book. Sometimes I talk to him about .. Dongho Hyung. Do you think they’d get along?” Jeonghan giggles “Well, Mingyu’s loud and noisy. Dongho was calm so,”

Wonwoo smiles, “I see,” Jeonghan hums. “What do you plan on doing when Mingyu wakes up?” Wonwoo’s heart twists. “Fall on his feet and beg for forgiveness?” Jeonghan smiles softly, “I don’t think he would even hold it against you,”

Wonwoo purses his lips, “I wish he would,” he speaks up, “I’ve caused him so much trouble after all,” his voice becomes quiet with guilt Jeonghan doesn’t say anything. “Don’t punish yourself, Wonwoo-yah. You’ve been punished enough. I wish you’d go more easy on yourself,”

Wonwoo clenches his jaw and lowers his gaze. “I’m sorry about your breakup, Hyung,” Wonwoo says and Jeonghan shakes his head, “it’s okay, forget about it. I’ll move on,” “Yeah it’s..good to move on,” Wonwoo says. Jeonghan just stares at Wonwoo

“When Mingyu wakes up and you apologise to him, will you move on, Wonwoo-yah?” Wonwoo gulps, “move on from what, Hyung?” “From Dongho, from guilt,” Wonwoo smiles, “I don’t think I want to move on from Dongho, Hyung,”

— 2 months later — Mingyu’s eyes stir open ahead of the alarms when he feels Wonyoung moving around in her sleep, groaning painfully He blinks away his sleep and turns around to his lover, “Won, Won, are you okay?” he calls

Wonyoung’s sweating and breathing heavily. Is she having a nightmare? “Wonyoung,” Mingyu calls, gently shaking her awake and her eyes shoot open, filled with horror. She takes deep breath, trying to make sense of her surroundings.

Once she realises she’s safe, her expression falls and she relaxes, snuggling into Mingyu’s embrace, shaking Mingyu combs his fingers through her hair, “it’s okay, you’re at home, it’s okay,” Mingyu takes a deep breath and the two fall back to sleep.

— “Gyu, Mingyu-Yah, why didn’t you wake me up?” Wontoung stumbles into the powder room as Mingyu ties his tie He smiles, “hey, go back to sleep,” he takes her hand and guides her back to bed. She can barely keep her eyes open, “but you said it was important—“

“For me. Not for you. You should rest, okay? I’ll be back soon,” he kisses her forehead and she begins to drift back to sleep “Are you sure you’ll be okay?” She mumbles Mingyu nods, “I’m not going alone, so,” She hums, “right. Your dancer friend from the hospital,”

Plagued by night terrors all night, Wonyoung finally succumbs to sleep and Mingyu smiles. “I’ll be back soon,” he says and kisses her forehead — “As expected, there are a lot of flowers,” Chan says, staring at the tombstone. Mingyu purses his lips into a thin smile

In the end, Mirae Ajhumma chose to be buried right next to her husband. It’s a little disheartening to see that while her grave is clean and flowery, her husband’s is empty and dusty. Mingyu and Chan don’t utter a word for a while.

“I promised myself I’d visit her when I could walk again,” Mingyu says, taking a deep breath. He wanted to show her that he had the will to want to get healed. That he finally did it. But… Sigh. “She would’ve been super happy for you, Hyung,” chan says

They don’t have much to talk today. It’s a little awkward to since it’s the first time in months that they’ve spoken. “Let’s go get some flowers for Ajhumma’s husband’s grave,” Mingyu says and Chan nods, “sure thing,”

As the two walk to the on-site florist, they engage in small talk. “I heard you’re selected to be on Soonyoung’s team,” Mingyu says and Chan’s eyes light up “Yes! I can not choreograph! Isn’t that cool?” Mingyu smiles. He’s missed that childlike enthusiasm of his

“Very cool,” Mingyu says and Chan grins, “what about you? How’s your restaurant?” Mingyu shrugs, “it’s in good hands but I’m not the head chef there anymore. I’m opening a catering business soon,” In the last few months, Mingyu’s gathered funds and found a place too.

It’s been exciting as well as a little scary. But he’s on the right track. All he needs to do now is to recruit people. Mingyu’s kinda thrilled about moving onto this chapter of his life “That’s great! If you ever need any help, call me, Hyung,” and Mingyu laughs

— The two head back to Mirae’s grave with flowers in hand. “Have you heard from Wonwoo Hyung?” Chan asks, an innocent question, but Mingyu tenses. “No I….” Mingyu doesn’t have the courage to get in touch with Wonwoo. He doesn’t know if Wonwoo would even want that.

“No, Chan. I haven’t,” Chan hums, “that’s too bad. He would’ve wanted to visit Ajhumma as well,” Chan’s right. Mingyu always thought that Mirae and Wonwoo didn’t like each other, or know each other

But now that he knows that they were acquainted way before Mingyu was even in the picture, he can imagine them being close. Mingyu shakes his head. As they walk back to the grave, Mingyu falls into deep thought

“It’s a shame her husband’s grave isn’t decorated. I heard their marriage wasn’t approved of by their families,” Mingyu nods, “Yeah. But I bet Ajhumma sent flowers here every week,” he smiles Ajhumma truly loved her husband She…never moved on. Not even in death.

Is…is Wonwoo the same? Every now and then Mingyu finds himself wondering about that kiss. Why did Wonwoo kiss him? Did Wonwoo ever move on? Will he ever? Does he even want to?? The two men stop in front the grave and Mingyu kneels to clean the tombstone a little

But as he does so, his gaze falls upon an object on Mirae’s grave, one not previously present when they were here 15 minutes ago A water bottle Mingyu gasps and springs to his feet, looking around the vast expanse of the cemetery, searching for..searching for…

“Hyung!” Chan calls as Mingyu dashes towards the entrance of the cemetery, his heart racing tremendously He’s dizzy as he makes it to the entrance, only for there to be no sign of life around He looks around, catching his breath. Fuck! Mingyu…just missed Wonwoo

~~~~~~ “Here, Ajhumma,” Wonwoo hands Mirae a bottle of water from the vending machine outside. She takes it from his hands gently and smiles, “Thanks, dear,” she says as Wonwoo settles down beside her. Mirae and Wonwoo sit in silence, watching Mingyu sleep.

Ever since Dongho passed away, Mirae and Wonwoo haven’t really been able to talk like they used to. Perhaps Dongho’s absence exposed the lacunae of their relationship. He was their buffer since they’re both rather shy and reserved people.

“Aren’t you hot in that suit?” Mirae asks and Wonwoo looks down at his outfit. “It’s not so bad,” he replies Mirae hums, “Are suits all that you own? Why are you always in suits?” Wonwoo purses his lips, “Dongho Hyung said he liked when I wore suits so,”

Mirae hums again, “so you’re going to wear suits till you die then, huh?” Wonwoo smiles“I guess that’s the plan,” Mirae looks him up and down and turns to watch Mingyu “I’ll befriend this kid when he wakes up. He’s very handsome,” Wonwoo giggles, “he’s very handsome indeed,”

Mirae cocks a brow, “speaking of handsome men, there are a lot in this world. You’re handsome too. I’m sure they’d like to date you,” Wonwoo purses his lips, “as flattering as that is, I don’t think I can love someone else, Ajhumma,”

Mirae sighs. “I suppose you still think about him, hm?” Wonwoo smirks, “I do. I think of him when I read. I think of him when I write. I think of him when I laugh, when I cry,” he lowers his gaze, “I just…kiss him so much,” he whispers, holding back tears

Miss*

Mirae doesn’t say anything for a while “It always hurts when they leave before us,” Mirae speaks up, and Wonwoo turns to see sorrow written all over her face

“Are you also holding onto someone?” Wonwoo asks. Mirae smiles painfully, “just like you, I can’t move on either” Wonwoo swallows. Ajhumma must be in pain too

“But I hope you can, Wonwoo-yah,” she begins, “moving on doesnt mean forgetting. It means locking those precious memories deep inside your heart to make space for new ones,” Wonwoo gulps and turns to Mingyu, “I wonder if…I’ll ever find someone to make memories with,”

A/N : if it wasn’t clear, Wonwoo visited Mirae’s grave and left a bottle of water in her grave when Mingyu and Chan were at the florist’s!

— 2 months later — After retrieving the box of albums from the attic, Wonyoung heads down to Mingyu’s bedroom, where she finds Mingyu staring at the computer screen Wonyoung places the carton down and smiles, “no mail yet?” Mingyu turns to her, lips pressed shut, “no,”

She walks over to him and leans down to kiss his head, resting her arms on his shoulders, “you’ll get it, babe. Don’t worry,” she reassures and Mingyu sighs. His hands run down her arms and their fingers lace gently. Mingyu looks up, “what’s in the box?” he asks

Wonyoung grins and tugs at Mingyu’s hand, “I found our old albums,” she chirps and Mingyu raises his brows, “what?” Wonyoung guides him to the bed and settles down beside him, grabbing a dusty album from the box. A delightful smile graces Mingyu’s face when she opens the album

Mingyu bursts out laughing at once when the first photo he sees is of Wonyoung, Seungcheol and Mingyu drunk and in a Photo Booth Wonyoung giggles, just excited to be with Mingyu. “Ah, we were so childish,” Mingyu says, flipping over the pages for more pictures

There’s a picture of Seungcheol in a karaoke bar A picture of Wonyoung in the library However one picture catches Mingyu’s eye. “When did you take this?” Mingyu asks, eyes wide at the picture of Mingyu holding a burnt tray of cookies, his first attempt at baking

Wonyoung chuckles and leans onto him, “I figured you’d look back at it in the future and realise how far along you’ve come,” Mingyu smiles softly, “I still can’t bake cookies though,” and Wonyoung snorts, “that’s not the point. You’ve come so far, Gyu. You’re a successful chef,”

Mingyu smiles and pecks Wonyoung’s lips, “and you were by my side all along,” Wonyoung bites her lips and says nothing. This is Mingyu’s success and no one else’s. They move onto the other pages, pictures ranging from their college to the time they were dating.

Wonyoung sighs, leaning onto Mingyu’s shoulder. Wonyoung met Mingyu on the first day of college and they’ve been inseparable since. Well, not completely, given their 2 year long separation recently Wonyoung runs her eyes up Mingyu’s face, studying his handsome features

Wonyoung regrets leaving to this day Tensions were high between the two after that one visit to the doctor. The Chef’s job is no walk in the park. After Joshua’s return from the States and Mingyu’s reluctance to work together with him, stress took a toll on Mingyu’s health

Mingyu built his restaurant and brand over several years. So to suddenly work along somebody proved challenging Mingyu was too stubborn to let go of control. Of course it led to fights between them. At the same time, when Wonyoung was offered a job abroad

With how things were between them, Wonyoung decided to walk out on their relationship. That has been her biggest regret to date. Because not only did she miss out on 2 years together, the Mingyu that’s sitting beside her isn’t the Mingyu of the past

This Mingyu is different. He’s not the stubborn Mingyu from before. He’s making efforts to improve his condition. Heck, he’s decided to start a catering business as well. But most importantly, this Mingyu harbours sadness in his heart that Wonyoung can’t tap into

“Tell me about your time in the hospital,” Wonyoung says, lowering her gaze to their locked fingers. For some reason, she’s a little scared to hear about it It might look like they picked up right where they left but it’s not the same anymore

Mingyu seems taken aback by the question, and also seems hesitant to even answer the question. Wonyoung can see the cogs in Mingyu’s brain turning. “It wasn’t bad,” Mingyu begins, “it was a luxurious hospital. I had everything I needed there,” he says, voice dying down

Wonyoung hums, playing with the once familiar fingers of her lover, tears brimming in her eyes for some reason “Cheol said you had amnesia. What was that like? You’ve never mentioned anything about it to me,” she says, voice constrained with emotion

Mingyu hums, his chest vibrating, “it was hard,” he begins, “I had lost 18 months of my life and had no answers about the thousand questions in my mind. But it was okay because…I wasn’t alone,” Wonyoung chuckles airily, “you weren’t?”

Mingyu shakes his head, “no I…I made friends. Chan, Mirae Ajhumma, and…” Mingyu trails off, gulping nervously. “And?” Wonyoung asks, knowing very well that there’s someone Mingyu’s omitting, someone he wants to move on from, to forget. “Seungcheol and Jeonghan Hyung,”

Wonyoung smiles sadly. Of course Mingyu isn’t going to open up to her They’re not..what they were before Mingyu and Wonyoung aren’t Mingyu and Wonyoung anymore

A sort of sorrow seeps into Wonyoung‘s body, because it feels like she’s in love with a ghost Perhaps, getting back together was a mistake “I love you,” she says, voice a mere whisper. Mingyu remains silent for a second. “Me too,” She closes her eyes. No you don’t.

~~~ “Yes. It’s done, I’ll send it over to you in a bit,” Wonwoo tells Hansol as he steps out of the elevator. “Okay, thanks,” Hansol chimes, “also, I’m obligated to ask you about /that/ manuscript,” Wonwoo sighs. “My answer is still no, Hansol-ah,” Wonwoo says

There is no way he can submit that manuscript He’s too scared to look at what Dongho Hyung wrote inside. And he doesn’t want anyone else to read it before him. But it’s a little annoying how hung up the firm is on that book, despite them already working on a new book

As Wonwoo turns the corner, he sees the door to his apartment open, his neighbour Harabeoji peeking in “Hansol, I gotta go,” Wonwoo disconnects the call and runs towards his apartment “Harabeoji, what—“ but what he sees inside shocks him Dongho’s family

“What are you doing here?” Wonwoo rushes in when they see them rummaging through his belongings, stashing things in a box They’re startled by Wonwoo, but keep their heads held high, “collecting our son’s things,” they says

“Wonwoo-yah, you don’t know them? They said they knew and asked to be let in,” Harabeoji says, concerned Wonwoo quickly begins to unload stuff from the box, “you need to leave before I call the cops,” Wonwoo warns.

This is his home He will not stand by as homophobes ransack this place The mention of cops seems to spook them and Dongho’s parents exchange a nervous glance. “This is trespassing and breaking in,” Wonwoo warns, “Harabeoji, call the cops”

“Stop!” The mother yells, “we’re here to take our son’s stuff. This has nothing to do with you. This is not your home,” “This!” Wonwoo raises his voice, startling the intruders, “this is my home. This is our home, mine and Dongho Hyung’s. You have not right to be here!”

The parents fall silent. “Wonwoo-yah, should I dial the number?” Harabeoji asks and Dongho’s father steps forward, “just give us our son’s stuff and we’ll be on our way,” Wonwoo glances at the box he’s guarding Looks like they’ve been through all rooms for their apartment

Dongho’s books, Dongho’s stationery, his clothes, his watch, his accessories, his … everything Wonwoo swallows, standing firmly between Dongho’s family and what they desire. Dongho’s family never accepted Wonwoo, neither were they fully supportive of Dongho.

They tormented Dongho for years, not shying from using various slurs to humiliate him in public, over phone, in gatherings… They’d practically banished Dongho from the family. So why do they keep coming back and pretending to care for their son?! Wonwoo will not tolerate this

“Leave. Or I’ll call the cops and oress charges for trespassing and breaking and entering,” Wonwoo’s determined to hold onto Dongho, “this stuff stays here with me, the one person who actually loved Dongho Hyung,” Rage ignites in Dongho’s Mom’s eyes

But the two know better than raising a hand on Wonwoo. They know it will land them in trouble. Good. “Let’s go,” Dongho’s father says, walking past Wonwoo towards the door, their gazes vengeful and filled with rage Dongho’s mom however stops beside Wonwoo.

“It’s a little pathetic that you’re holding onto a dead person’s belonging. But if being in love makes you this miserable, I curse you to never be able to move on,” And with that, she walks away as if she didn’t just spew poison onto Wonwoo’s face It’s okay It’s going to be ok

— 2 months later — “Hyung! There are a lot of good reviews on our website and Google!” Seungkwan exclaims, referring to Mingyu’s first catering gig. “Oh my god!” Wonyoung turns to Mingyu and hugs him, “Mingyu! I’m so proud of you!” She cups his cheeks

Mingyu is a flustered mess, grinning like a fool, so childishly excited, so elated He’d missed this feeling. Mingyu was a little nervous catering for a wedding for his first gig but he’s thankful to god that it turned out well

“We’ve already got 5 more emails!” Seungkwan turns to Mingyu, “should I schedule them?” Mingyu licks his lips and turns to Wonyoung, who gently pats his back. Mingyu takes a deep inhale and turns to Seungkwan, “do it,” Seungkwan huffs, “sir yes sir!”

“Ah, Seungkwan, make sure they’re not back to back. If they are, cancel them. Having them back to back might be a little hectic,” Mingyu says and Seungkwan nods, “got it!” Mingyu’s chest swells, he can’t believe his business is taking off already!

Perhaps months of preparation paid off indeed With a foolish grin on his face, Mingyu turns to Wonyoung, who’s watching him with tender eyes, smiling to herself. “What’s up?” He asks and she shakes her head, chuckling, “I’m so proud of you, Mingyu-yah,” she hugs him

“For my business?” He hugs her back, looping his arms around her waist. She nods, “that too. But mostly that you’re taking care of yourself now,” she says, caressing his face. Mingyu presses his lips into a thin smile, and just hugs her in response. He’s glad too

— Mingyu’s really tapping into diverse bowl of occasions already because his second gig turns out to be a memorial slash birthday A memorial on a birthday Weird but who’s Mingyu to judge? “Soobin-ah, are you all set?” Mingyu asks, and the younger man nods

“They told me we can set up here and start serving at around 1 o clock,” he informs and Mingyu smiles, “okay,” Mingyu scans his surroundings. A beautiful garden and pleasant weather. Most guests have arrived and are seated, engaged in small talk.

They’ve been allotted a tent for preparation of the meals and Mingyu’s employees have been working extra hard. “Keep an eye on everything, okay?” Mingyu tells Soobin, his manager, who nods and disappears into the tent. Mingyu takes the liberty to take a stroll

The preparations and decorations are elaborate, and from what it looks like, the family that organised this event seems to be affluent Mingyu takes a seat in the back rows, looking at the photo propped up on the stage It’s a shame the man died at such young age

Mingyu’s looking around when someone settles down beside him, an elderly couple. “Hello,” they bow and Mingyu smiles, “Hello,” For a while, no words are exchanged, with the couple scanning their surroundings and Mingyu minding his business

“So, how do you know Dongho?” Mingyu’s ears perk at the mention of that name. “Dongho…” Mingyu mumbles, visibly confused. The woman smiles, “Kwon Dongho. It’s his birthday today. And his memorial,” Mingyu swallows. Kwon Dongho? Dongho… It can’t be, right?

“I uh,” Mingyu gulps, “I’m catering today,” he says and the old man nods, “I see. I thought you were a friend of Dongho. Poor kid. He suffered a lot,” Mingyu lowers his gaze, feeling a little lightheaded. His fingers tremble. It’s just a coincidence. That’s it.

“Suffered?” Mingyu needs to know it’s not the same Dongho “Ah, yes. He was very sick, admitted in the hospital for months together,” the woman chimes, “his family missed him deeply. They weren’t talking, you see,” Mingyu gulps “Which hospital?” The old man frowns. “KNU”

Mingyu’s world shatters and the pieces fall right onto his heart, piercing it painfully He’s shaking in his seat, and he can’t bring himself to look up at the photo sitting on stage. No No no no This is Dongho’s memorial The Dongho that Wonwoo…

Mingyu’s completely frozen in place, a million thoughts going through his brain But most importantly— will Wonwoo be here? “Excuse me,” Mingyu says and stands up, retreating to his tent. This can’t be This can’t be happening

All of a sudden, static fills the air and Mingyu’s ears, making him turn around to see a woman on the stage, holding a mic, ready to speak - “We cannot taste words or touch sighs, but we can see eyes and show smiles,” she recites, and Mingyu gasps. That poem…he knows it

Wonwoo…Wonwoo read that to Mingyu all those months ago… The woman looks up at the audience, smiling softly, “Our Dongho was a man of few words. But his poems and lyrics never failed to touch our hearts,” Dongho’s poems Dongho’s poems is what…Wonwoo had been…

Mingyu’s eyes drop to Dongho’s picture, of his handsome face, tanned skin and soulful eyes Mingyu swallows, his legs cemented to the ground as the woman, presumably Dongho’s mom, speaks up.

“Our son was taken from us too soon. His absence pains me but I am glad that his words will be immortalised in his songs,” she says and turns to the picture, “Happy birthday, my son. We love you,” she says and Mingyu basically runs back into his tent, unable to stand it

On his way in, he runs into Soobin, he quickly steadies him, “Hyung, you okay? You look pale,” Mingyu swallows. No, he needs to play this cool. If he panics, it’ll jeopardise their work. He forces a smile, “no just..kinda dizzy. Do we have lemonade?”

Soobin doesn’t question Mingyu’s behaviour and nods, “uh, one second,” He walks over to the drinks section and pours Mingyu a glass, handing it to him, “do you want a tablet to go with it?” Mingyu shakes his head as he chugs down the glass, “no I’m good,”

Soobin smiles and sighs, turning to the crowd outside in the lawn “I didn’t know he wrote a lot of my favourite songs,” Soobin says, and Mingyu tenses. “Is that so?” Mingyu hums

Soobin nods, “yeah. He’s known for his romantic pieces. They’re truly heart wrenching. I didn’t know you could write about love like that,” Mingyu’s heart twists painfully in his chest. “I wonder who he wrote them about,” Soobin ponders. Mingyu knows who he wrote about

Mingyu knows how it must have been for Dongho to put out such lyrics because the person he was in love with was… “Hyung can I say something? Promise you won’t get upset,” Soonbin says and Mingyu gulps, “what is it?” Soobin shrugs, “you look a lot like Dongho-nim,” … Yeah.

— “Hyung, we’ll start loading into the truck,” Soobin informs Mingyu, who’s seated on the stairs leading to the kitchen door of the lavish mansion “I’ll settle the payment this time. You go ahead,” Mingyu says. “Alright,” Soobin says and walks away

Mingyu rubs his face with his palms Wonwoo was a no-show Of course he was Jeonghan told Mingyu that Wonwoo and Dongho’s family weren’t on good terms. That Dongho’s family had tormented Wonwoo in several ways Of course he didn’t show up. Mingyu exhales. Small world

Willingly or unwillingly, Mingyu was made aware of Dongho’s life and personality Dongho was a lyricist, and he made quite the same for himself. Of course he and Wonwoo got along. Dongho…was outdoorsy. He enjoyed videography and photography. He enjoyed cooking too

Dongho was an extrovert. He was very energetic. He loved keeping up with the latest fashion trends He loved dogs. He had one as well. And it just…all of this information just… Aren’t Dongho and Mingyu uncannily similar?

Time and again, Mingyu finds himself thinking about Wonwoo. He thinks about their time together, he thinks about their kiss, he thinks about how Wonwoo reciprocated it, how Mingyu believed Wonwoo liked him too… But now…

Like Mingyu was searching for Wonyoung in Wonwoo, perhaps Wonwoo was searching for Dongho in Mingyu That’s why he..didn’t object to the kiss That’s why he kissed bavk Because in his mind was..Dongho and never…Mingyu “Damn it,” Mingyu curses

This is what Mingyu deserves For loving Wonwoo half heartedly, for loving Wonyoung half heartedly A taste of his own medicine Mingyu takes a deep breath. Was everything between him and Wonwoo nothing more than an illusion then?

All they did was try to fill the voids in their hearts by latching onto the people who reminded them of their beloveds Mingyu and Wonwoo have never been Mingyu and Wonwoo It was all just… “Fuck,” Mingyu doesn’t know why this hurts so much

Mingyu takes a few minutes to collect himself “Delivery,” a voice says and Mingyu looks up to see a delivery boy holding a large box “Ah..” Mingyu stands up, about to take it when the kitchen door opens and Dongho’s mother walks out, “oh, Mingyu-ssi? I was looking for you,”

Dongho’s mother takes the box from the delivery boy, “follow me, I’ll give you the cheque,” she says and Mingyu bows, “thank you, Ma’am,” He follows her into the kitchen, where she places the box on the kitchen island “Thank you so much for today,” she says, analysing the box

“It’s not problem,” he says, forcing a smile. He can’t bring himself to like her, not after he learnt how she treated Wonwoo in the past But Mingyu contains his anger. She takes a knife and slices through the tape, opening the box. “You made our son’s birthday very special,”

“It was my pleasure, ma’am,” Mingyu smiles. He wants to leave already. He wants to take the cheque and run away. He’d run away without the cheque but he has his team to look after. “Ma’am, the che—“

Dongho’s mom gasps when she sees the contents of the box. Curiosity piqued, Mingyu takes a peek into the box. It’s some books, clothes, etc. “Dongho’s belongings,” Dongho’s mom tears up, “finally, finally I have them,” she says. Mingyu frowns. What’s happening?

“Ma’am—“ “Honey!” She yells suddenly, “Honey! Look!” She calls for her husband, who emerges from the hallway, “what is it?” She points at the box, “that prick Wonwoo finally sent us our son’s stuff!” Mingyu visibly flinches at the mention of that name.

Dongho’s father’s indifferent face suddenly morphs into that of surprise, rushing towards the box. He rummages through the box, as if looking for something, “after all these years, that prick decided to send this to us,” Dongho’s dad mumbles as his mom sniffles

“He tormented us for so long. Didn’t he say all those things? About loving our son and what not? Did he suddenly stop caring then?” Dongho’s mom gossips, “not only did he deprive us of our son, he had the audacity to hoard his belongings. That bast—“ “The cheque!” Mingyu yells

And the couple startles at the voice. “Ma’am,” Mingyu’s internally seething with anger, “the cheque. I have another event to get to,” he forces a smile, and he doesn’t mind if it comes out as menacing. “R-Right,” Dongho’s mother says and rummages through her purse

She hands Mingyu the cheque, wearily so, and the man bows, “thank you for employing our services,” While the drill is to hand them a few business cards and tell they hope to be employed again, Mingyu decides to skip out on that part He doesn’t want to see these people again

And with that, Mingyu turns around to leave. He runs into Soobin who had come back to inform Mingyu what all was set. “Hyung—“ “Hold on to this,” he hands him the cheque, getting into the car. “Wh— why me?” Soobin asks and Mingyu clenches his jaw “I might tear it up,”

~~~~~~~ When Wonwoo walks into Mingyu’s room that day, he spooks when he sees an elderly patient standing by Mingyu’s bed, staring at him silently “Harabeoji,” Wonwoo walks over, sliding in the space between the man and Mingyu, “what are you doing here?”

Wonwoo finally gets a good look at the man’s face. Oh it’s the dementia Harabeoji. The one who called Wonwoo a grim reaper. Yeah that’s how Wonwoo’s going to remember this man. Those words hurt him but he knows there was no malice behind them.

The old man finally looks up at Wonwoo, as if just noticing his presence, “I’m talking to Dongho,” Wonwoo frowns and looks down at Mingyu. He turns to Harabeoji, who continues to stare at Mingyu wordlessly. Wonwoo has to admit there are some similarities in their appearances

But not so much “That’s not Dongho, Harabeoji. That’s Mingyu,” Wonwoo gently guided Harabeoji to sit down by his shoulders. The old man frowns and comes to a realisation “Right. The grim reaper took Dongho away,” Wonwoo purses his lips “Yes. He did,” he sighs, sitting down

“You,” Harabeoji turns, and Wonwoo prepares himself to be called the grim reaper again, “you’re the one who used to lift Dongho, aren’t you?” As glad as Wonwoo is for not being called the messenger of death, he’s a little sad that Harabeoji doesn’t remember his relay with Dongho

“What do you mean lift?” Wonwoo asks and Harabeoji clicks his tongue, “I saw you. You used to pick him up from the bed and put him in wheelchairs, or take him to the bathroom,” Wonwoo swallows. Dongho had become incredibly week, so Wonwoo used to help him out now and then

Harabeoji seems to remember that for some reason. “Yeah,” Wonwoo admits and Harabeoji nods, crossing his arms. He then extends his arm and pats Wonwoo on the back, “you’re a strong man. Good job using your strength like that,” Wonwoo, although surprised, just laughs

Harabeoji doesn’t mind Wonwoo’s laughter and stares at Mingyu. Z “Are you a body builder then?” Harabeoji asks and Wonwoo shakes his head, laughter dying down, “No. I’m uh, I’m a writer,” he informs and Harabeoji raises his brows questioningly

“A writer? How pathetic. Why did you become a writer? You could’ve been a policeman,” Wonwoo chuckles. He turns to Mingyu and hums. “Dongho told me I write well. So I decided to become a writer,”

“Ah, if Dongho said so then it’s okay,” Wonwoo laughs again. Once his laughter dies down, silence befalls them. It’s nice to laugh like this. It’s been a while since he laughed. “Dongho really loved you, you know,” Harabeoji says suddenly, and Wonwoo frowns, “huh?”

Harabeoji doesn’t look at Wonwoo, continuing to stare at Mingyu, nodding slowly. “Harabeoji, what did you say?” Wonwoo asks, and the man turns to him, dazed, “why am I here?”

Wonwoo’s heart sinks. He smiles, taking his arm, “let me take you to your room,” Dongho really loved you, you know? Wonwoo smiles He knows

— one month later — Wonyoung’s leaning against the door frame, watching her boyfriend fiddle with a Watch, as if contemplating whether to wear it or not Mingyu’s been doing that for months now — staring at that watch, deep in thought, before ultimately setting it aside

He never wears it, he only just stares at it. And Wonyoung thinks he’s going to do the same this time around as well, set the Watch aside to contemplate later But Mingyu surprises her by sliding that Watch onto his wrist and clicking it close. A soft gasp leaves her lips

“Done packing?” Wonyoung makes her presence known and walks over to Mingyu, patting him on the back. He turns to her and smiles, but there’s something admittedly different about it. Wonyoung’s a little scared “Big event, huh?” Wonyoung doesn’t want to address the tension

“Yeah,” Mingyu smiles, “catering for a retreat. It’s daunting but also exciting,” he says, looking right at Wonyoung. Wonyoung tries to avoid eye contact, she can’t look at him like this “Where did you get that Watch?” she asks, trying to buy some time

Mingyu glances at the Watch on his wrist and purses his lips, “I….Wonwoo gave it to me,” Wonyoung’s eyes widen. Wonwoo? That’s a name she’s never heard before “I-I see. Do you know him from the hospital?” She asks, shaking a little. Mingyu swallows, “Won, we…need to talk,”

There it is. Wonyoung swallows thickly and nods, faking a smile, “of course,” But nothing could’ve prepared her for what Mingyu was about to tell her

— Mingyu’s brimming with nervousness, his foot won’t stop tapping the floor anxiously, and it’s like he’s forgotten how to breathe at this point as he waits for Wonyoung to process what he’s told her There’s not a single expression on her face, and Mingyu’s worried

“So you’re in love with this Wonwoo person?” Are the words she utters after a long and painful silence “Y-Yes,” Mingyu says and she raises a brow, “you don’t sound sure,” Mingyu smiles, lips trembling, “I’m not,” his voice comes out weaker than he’s expected

Mingyu lowers his head and closes his eyes He’s not even sure he’s in love with Wonwoo and yet he wants to break up with Wonyoung His decisions are illogical And he’s just waiting for Wonyoung to point that out But she doesn’t “Why not?” She asks instead, cupping his cheeks

Mingyu takes a shaky breath, “you and he…are very similar. What if I fell for him because he reminded me of you? He just seemed to fit the Wonyoung shaped hole in my heart?” Wonyoung smiles, reassuring Mingyu, “he and I are similar how?”

“You both like reading, you’re both so calm and reserved, you’re both supportive and always reassuring me and…” There’s so many other qualities that Mingyu can’t fit into his monologue, overwhelmed by emotion. He doesn’t want to be alone. If Wonyoung leaves, he’ll be alone

But he can’t pretend to love her He can’t pretend it’s her voice that echoes in his heart, that it’s her presence he craves so badly Because it’s not Mingyu can’t do this to Wonyoung. He can’t bind her like this. He can’t force himself to fall back in love with her

Wonyoung’s eyes are teary, and Mingyu feels like an douche for leading her on thee roast few months, making her believe that they could pick up where they left. She takes a deep breath, fingers caressing Mingyu’s face, “No two people are the same, Mingyu-yah,” she begins

“Wonwoo and I are not the same people. You..fell in love with Wonwoo, not the idea of him. You need to accept that, only then can you be truly happy,” she says and a tear trickles down Mingyu’s eye.

“You’re so perfect, Won-ah,” Mingyu pulls her in for a tight hug, “you’re so perfect,” he’s beginning to sob Wonyoung chuckles, cupping his cheeks and pulling away, tears streaming down her cheeks, “perfect doesn’t mean it’s working, Gyu,”

Mingyu sniffles, holding her hand, “I’m scared, Won-ah,” Wonyoung scoffs, “of what, Gyu?” Mingyu swallows, “what if I’m not really in love with him?” Wonyoung smiles, a bitter taste spreading through her mouth “Do you think of him when you’re with me?” She asks

And Mingyu’s eyes widen She giggles, kissing his cheeks,“idiot,” tears trickle down her eyes, “do you wonder how he would do things? How he would solve your problems? Do you think about how he is? Do you miss him?” She hugs Mingyu, because she can feel him letting go, moving on

Mingyu gulps, “what if he doesn’t want me?” his voice is quiet, scared “Why wouldn’t he want you, Mingyu?” Mingyu shakes his head, eyes shifty, “I haven’t contacted him since we…what if he never liked me in the first place? What if he hates me for not talking to him?”

“I’ve regretted it, so much, not contacting him. I’m a coward, Won. But I…I can’t stop thinking about him. I thought I’d moved on, that I’d be happy once I got back to this life, to you, but…all I think about is his smile, his eyes, his voice, his laugh, his touch…”

‘Kim Mingyu, you’re so cruel,’ Wonyoung thinks, pulling away. “Mingyu, do you think you’re making excuses because you’re too afraid to let go of the past and embrace change?” Wonyoung asks. Mingyu’s eyes enlarge, “what? I..no…”

Wonyoung sighs, taking a good look at the man she lost 2 years ago, at the man who’s not hers anymore, at the man whose heart belongs to a person named Wonwoo “Don’t be afraid, Mingyu-yah. You’ll be okay, hm? You just need to take the first step. You’ll be okay, hm?”

Mingyu takes a deep breath, as if coming to terms with it all. She smiles, hugging him one last time, “I guess we weren’t meant to be,” she says, and he hugs her back, “we were. But only temporarily. And it was wonderful,” Wonyoung smiles, pulling away, “Now stop crying, hm?”

Mingyu nods and she flashes him a toothy grin, “you’ll be okay once you accept that you have to move forward instead of clinging to the past, hm?”

Mingyu nods again, and Wonyoung chuckles, “and for your satisfaction, I’m sure there’s a startling difference between Wonwoo and I that can convince you that it’s him you love and not me,” Mingyu swallows.

“Maybe you don’t love him, or maybe you do,” Wonyoung says, “but what is certain is that you don’t love me,” Guilt emerges on Mingyu’s face and she laughs. “Either way, Mingyu-ssi, you must move on, hm? Promise me?” She asks, choking up.

It’s hard to let go. How can she? Mingyu’s so wonderful But he’s not hers anymore “I promise,” “Good!” She stands up, “let’s finish packing, hm?” Mingyu his lips pull into a smile. “Okay,” There’s a weight lifted off his chest. It feels good to be able to breathe

— “Hyung,” Soobin calls, making Mingyu look up from the plate he’s setting “Yes?” he asks, taking a look at his employees working, setting plates, setting up their stations “Yeonjun-ssi said that after the speech, we can start serving the food,”

“What time is the speech? And who is Yeonjun?” Mingyu asks “Yeonjun-ssi is the Director’s secretary. He’s the one who planned this trip and organised the event. And uh, the speech is starting at 12:30,” Mingyu flicks his wrist and checks the time in his watch.

“A few minutes to go,” Mingyu says and straightens, “we’re set. Are the waiters ready? Soobin nods, “yes. I’ve got this, Hyung. Take a break, okay? You’ve been working all morning,” Mingyu’s first instinct is to resist but he smiles and nods, “alright,” he lets Soobin take over

Let go let go Mingyu should let go He should prioritise his health as well He’s glad that someone as capable as Soobin is by his side. It makes it easier to let go Mingyu sighs and looks up at the stage as a person walks onto it, following a loud round of applause

Mingyu hadn’t been paying attention to the event itself so he wonders just why there’s so much applause But when Mingyu takes a better look at the man standing on stage, bowing, Mingyu’s heart skips a beat and time freezes Because that’s none other than — “W-Wonwoo,”

~~~~~~~ “Good morning,” Wonwoo says, walking down the hallway when they nurses wave at him “Harabeoji, the room is this way,” Wonwoo stops on his way to guide Harabeoji back into his room. The man dismisses Wonwoo with a groan, making the man smile

“Good morning, Ajhumma,” Wonwoo pops into Mirae’s room briefly, and she nods, “Good Morning,” Wonwoo flashes her a smile and walks to Mingyu’s room, running into Jeonghan who’s walking out “Oh, hey Won, morning,” he greets, “his vitals are normal,” “That’s great,” Wonwo smiles

Jeonghan closes the door behind him as Wonwoo pulls his seat and settles down, opening his book “Good morning, Mingyu-ssi,” Wonwoo greets, “you might not know it but the weather is exceedingly pleasant today,” No response, of course That doesn’t faze Wonwoo anymore

Wonwoo simply reads his book, deciding to recite the poem to Mingyu later. Wonwoo feels a lot better these days. A part of him can’t believe it’s been 18 months since he’s been coming here Wonwoo wonders if Mingyu will ever wake up. He wishes he would. 18 months is..too long

Visiting Mingyu everyday as given Wonwoo purpose in life. It’s not that he was aimless, but without Dongho, he was a little lost. So he’s glad that he has a routine to follow everyday. Wonwoo sighs deeply. It’s nothing to be happy about though. Mingyu is still in a coma

Suddenly, movement catches Wonwoo’s eye. And he lets out an unholy gasp when he sees Mingyu’s hand fall to the side of the bed. What the— Wonwoo, for a moment, thinks it must’ve fallen off because of gravity, or something,

but when his eyes travel upto Mingyu’s face, he finds that his eyes are open, his lids blinking and head turning to Wonwoo’s side, hand raising as if to block out the light and — Wonwoo springs to his feet and dashes out the door, finding Jeonghan

“What the— why are you running?!” Jeonghan hisses as Wonwoo catches his breath, thoroughly shaken. He swallows thickly and looks up Jeonghan, uttering only one word “M-Mingyu…” is all Wonwoo says And that’s enough.

— several months ago / almost an year ago — When Wonwoo opens the door, he isn’t really surprised to see Jeonghan standing there with two bottles of wine in his hands “What are you doing here?” Wonwoo asks, eyes puffy and painful. Jeonghan just sighs.

“Got suspended for two months so I think it’s time to get shitfaced,” he says and barges in, and Wonwoo’s in no mood to stop him. — Jeonghan pours Wonwoo like the 5th glass of wine tonight, and chugs the rest on his own.

Wonwoo watches him with indifference, staring at the red liquid in his glass. “How are ya?” Jeonghan’s tipsy, he can tell. Wonwoo takes a deep breath. “What do you think?” Wonwoo snorts, thinking back to everything that happened today

Seungcheol punched Wonwoo, and then Mingyu and Wonwoo kissed, and Wonwoo came to the devastating realisation that Mingyu thinks Wonwoo is his ex-lover. Wonwoo sniffles, taking a large sip of the wine.

“Apart from being suspended, what sorrows are you drinking away?” Wonwoo asks and Jeonghan smirks, “well, for starters, the girl my ex likes is back. And I can’t even hate her because she’s a sweetheart,” Wonwoo tenses. “Wonyoung-ssi is back?”

Jeonghan nods, “yeah. She’s with Mingyu now,” Wonwoo swallows the knot in his throat, “of course. That’s how it should be,” his voice trembles. Jeonghan exhales, “no it’s not. They were broken up,”

Wonwoo licks his lips, turning to look at Jeonghan, “he loves her, Hyung,” All these months, all those things Mingyu did, things he said — they weren’t meant for Wonwoo. They were meant for Wonyoung. It was all…Just an illusion. Never meant to be.

Before he knows it, tears spill from Wonwoo’s eyes, falling into his wine. This sucks. This sucks this sucks this sucks! He chugs the wine in one go. “No” Jeonghan speaks up, “he loves you,”

Wonwoo scoffs, “he longed for his lover so much that he cling to the one thing that reminded him of her — me,” Fate is so cruel Fate is so painful It won’t give Wonwoo a break

Jeonghan sighs, “I know Wonyoung. I know you. You two are nothing alike. In fact, she’s a lot more braver than you are,” Wonwoo huffs, “and what is that supposed to mean??”

Wonwoo’s startled to silence, because what Jeonghan said makes no sense at all. “You’re drunk,” Wonwoo dismisses him and Jeonghan crawls closer to Wonwoo, “are you saying you had no romantic feelings for Kim Mingyu?”

Wonwoo holds Jeonghan’s gaze, trying to muster the courage to deny those allegations. But the alcohol makes him weak and he lowers his gaze in defeat, “I didn’t,”

Jeonghan groans, “just what is your problem?! Why are you being so difficult! Why don’t you jsut admit that you’re in love with him?!” “Because if I admit that it would mean I didn’t love Dongho Hyung enough!” Wonwoo snaps, and it renders Jeonghan speechless.

Wonwoo catches his breath as a tear trickles down his face. He wipes it away before Jeonghan can see. For a long while, Jeonghan says nothing. He sits there, frighteningly silent.

“Wonwoo-yah,” “Hyung, I think you should leave—“ “No,” Jeonghan’s stern, “we should talk about this,” “What’s there to talk about?” Wonwoo raises his voice, “there is nothing to talk about!”

“Jeon Wonwoo,” Jeonghan puts an authoritative tone to to voice, “just because you love Mingyu doesn’t meant you loved Dongho any less,” “I don’t!! I.. I don’t ..love.. Mingyu! I just…” Wonwoo’s panicking It’s getting hot in here It’s hard to breathe

“Wonwoo-yah, you know you do,” Jeonghan coaxes, “you were moving on from Dongho. You were laughing , you were happy, you—“ “I can’t forget Dongho Hyung like that,” Wonwoo sniffles, “he was my first love. He was my first everything. I can’t just forget him,”

“Wonwoo-yah, moving on doesn’t mean forgetting. No one can take Dongho Hyung away from you. What you and he had can never be snatched from you. You’ll never forget him. But you need to accept that he’s gone. And you were, right?? You were coming to terms with it, right?”

Wonwoo swallows. Jeonghan’s not wrong. Wonwoo stopped wearing suits, Dongho’s poems didn’t make him sad anymore. The day Mirae died, he even visited Dongho’s grave. Wonwoo jsut stood there for a really long time. He didn’t cry, rather…he left with a smile.

“How can I love two people at the same time, Hyung?” Wonwoo asks and Jeonghan smiles. He presses his palm agaisnt Wonwoo’s chest, “the heart, especially yours, is capable of holding so much love, you know?” Wonwoo listens intently.

“The heart is massive, it’s palacious, it has room for so much love, endless love,” Jeonghan pats his chest gently, “Dongho’s love and Mingyu’s love can this coexist, Wonwoo-yah,” Wonwoos lower lips quivers and he looks down at Jeonghan’s hand.

“And your heart is begging to be filled, Won. Allow yourself to love and be loved, Won. You deserve happiness. And your happiness will not take anything away from what you felt for Dongho Hyung. I know that, you know that, and even Dongho knows that,”

Wonwoo’s sobbing at this point, doing a miserable job at wiping his tears, totally crumbling apart. “Mingyu,” Wonwoo hiccups, “he doesn’t love me,” he sobs and Jeonghan hugs Wonwoo,

“screw him then,” he says, “if not Mingyu, then someone else. And if no one else, then you. You should love yourself first, Won. You’ve suffered enough, hm? Allow yourself to be happy. Don’t punish yourself for misdeeds of the past,”

Perhaps this is what Wonwoo needed all along. Someone to talk to, someone to tell him it’s okay to be upset. Jeonghan pulls back and wipes the tears off Wonwoo’s cheeks, “it’s okay to not be okay. But you’ve made so much progress. And the only thing stopping you is closure +

+ Perhaps, all you need is closure, hm? Maybe then, you won’t hurt as much,” And that’s all it takes for Wonwoo to cling to his Hyung and break down like a child. But it feels somewhat freeing, and cathartic. Maybe Wonwoo just needed a good cry. And a shoulder to cry on

— When Wonwoo awakes that night, he makes sure to tiptoe around Jeonghan who’s passed out beside him. He slides out bed and carefully walks to his shelf, searching for something. In there, he finds a file stashed deep within his clothes.

Wonwoo hasn’t been able to even look at the file, let alone read it since Dongho Hyung died. And as Wonwoo blows the dust off the top and flips through the pages, he’s hoping he’ll find it. Closure.

With shaky hands, Wonwoo braces himself for Dongho’s last words to him. They might as well be corrections and suggestions, but Wonwoo wants to read them Wonwoo’s heart skips a beat when he flips to the last page and finds Dongho’s handwriting on it.

And there’s only two lines written there : “Why don’t you make this a happy ending? If it’s not happy, then it’s not the ending,” Wonwoo doesn’t cry. He doesn’t react all to much. He simply smiles. He smiles and it’s all that matters.

A/N : - quote inspired by yours truly, ShahRukh Khan

— “So what do you do?” Wonwoo looks up from his plate at the man sitting across him, a soft smile settles on his handsome features Wonwoo smiles, “I’m a writer,” Seojun’s eyes light up, “oh? That’s wonderful! Anything I might’ve heard of?”

Wonwoo purses his lips into a thin smile, “depends. What kind of genre do you like to read?” Wonwoo asks, taking a bite of his steak. “I love fantasy. And romcoms!” Seojun exclaims and Wonwoo bites his lip, “then you’ve probably not heard of me,”

“Why not?” Seojun questions and Wonwoo hums, “I uh, I mainly write tragic love stories,” Seojun’s face falls, “oh, that’s sad,” Wonwoo shrugs, “but it’s good money,”

“Yes but…” Seojun hums, “I always pity tragedy authors. There must be overlap between their stories and them, right?” Wonwoo halts, “what?” Seojun shrugs, “I mean, where are you getting all that sadness from, am I right?” Wonwoo falls silent “Right,” Wonwoo chuckles dryly

“So is that why you agreed to this blind date? Because you’re sad?” Which direction has this conversation veered into?? “No I…” Wonwoo sighs, “let’s talk about something else, hm?” His dismisses the man with a smile. Thankfully Seojun doesn’t question it

— “So, this is me,” Wonwoo says when Seojun stops the car. The man turns to Wonwoo with an charming smile on his face, “I had a nice time today,” he says Wonwoo purses his lips, not sure how to react, “me too,” “I’ll see you soon?” Seojun asks and Wonwoo nods, “I’ll call you,”

Seojun leans in to kiss Wonwoo, but the latter reacts badly, offering his cheek instead. Seojun just giggles and pulls away. Wonwoo acknowledges him with a nod and steps out the car. The car engine starts when Wonwoo’s conscience kicks in He turns and knocks on the window

“Seojun-ssi,” he calls and the man rolls the window down, “yes?” Wonwoo sighs, “actually, I’m not going to call you,” he says and Seojun’s face falls, “i don’t want to lie to you,” Seojun doesn’t seem displeased or upset. He just nods, “it was the story thing, right?”

Wonwoo purses his lips, “not completely,” Seojun sighs, smiling, “sorry. I’ve been told I blabber without thinking. I’m sorry I offended you,” “No it’s okay,” Wonwoo jumps in, “actually it’s mostly because I’m in love with someone else ,”

Seojun raises his brows, “that was honest,” and Wonwoo bites his lip, “I guess so,” Seojun chuckles, “I get it. Is he a writer too, then?” he asks, and Wonwoo swallows. “No he’s…he’s a chef,”

Seojun laughs, “what an odd pair! A chef and a writer!” Seojun does blabber indeed “I’m sorry! I did it again!” Seojun apologises and Wonwoo laughs, “it’s alright!” Seojun exhales and smiles, “so, are you going to tell him?”

Wonwoo takes a deep breath, “it’s been over an year since I last saw him so,” Seojun nods, “that’s too bad. So you’re going to keep writing tragedies then?” Wonwoo hums, “actually, my new book will be a happy ending,” Seojun smiles, “attaboy!”

Wonwoo giggles. “So, this is goodbye then, Seojun-ssi,” Seojun grins, “it was nice meeting you, Wonwoo-ssi. And I hope fate brings you two together,” Wonwoo chuckles. Spoken like a true rom-com fan “See you,” Wonwoo says and Seojun drives away

— “Ah, Hansol, I’m all packed. I’m leaving for the airport soon,” Wonwoo says, taking one final look at his apartment to see if he’s forgetting something “Great. I’ll meet you there,” Hansol says

“Also, you’re sure about this, right? You wrote under a pen-name for years and to suddenly go public can be scary,” Hansol adds and Wonwoo smiles “I know.But I’m not scared. I’m excited actually. This way I’ll even get to announce the commencement of my next series,” Wonwoo says

Wonwoo’s always written under a pen name, that just felt right. He always felt a little conscious about being associated to the things he wrote. But he feels differently now.

When Wonwoo submitted that manuscript, the publishers essentially threw him up in the air and chanted his name That felt nice. “I’m okay, Hansol-ah. Why do you ask?” Wonwoo giggles “It’s too late to back out but I was just curious,” Wonwoo smiles, “I’m not backing out,”

Not anymore He just wants to move ahead with things He doesn’t want to look back Of course there are some kinks he needs to correct in his life. He’ll get to them sooner or later. Over the last year, Wonwoo’s made an effort to get his life together and tie up loose ends

However, there still is one loose end he hasn’t been able to tie Wonwoo shakes his head One step at a time Wonwoo! One step at a time! “I’ll see you there Hansol. Bye,” and Hansol disconnects the call promptly. Wonwoo immediately rings Jeonghan up

As Wonwoo locks his apartment, the line continues to ring. And after what feels like an eternity, Jeonghan finally answers the call “Hyung? Listen I’m heading to the airport now. Are you sure you don’t wanna come? Jeju is beautiful this time of the year,”

However, Wonwoo’s surprised to hear a voice that’s not Jeonghan’s answering him “Wonwoo, uh, Jeonghan’s actually in the bathroom,” Wonwoo recognises that voice. “Seungcheol-ssi,” Wonwoo purses his lips and sighs. “Yeah. I uh—“ Wonwoo’s not seen him since the hospital

“Why did you answer the call?” Wonwoo asks calmly, “you knew it was me calling, right?” Seungcheol sighs, “I did. That’s why I answered it. Listen I…I know this doesn’t cut it but … I’m really sorry. About everything,” Wonwoo halts. Seungcheol is apologising?

“Are you and Jeonghan Hyung back together?” Wonwoo asks “No I… we’ve been talking. I’m hoping but..No we’re not,” Wonwoo exhales “Figure things out with Jeonghan Hyung. We can talk properly when I get back,” he says “You’re willing to talk?” Seungcheol asks

Wonwoo smiles, “being punished is painful. I don’t want to do the same to you,” Seungcheol falls silent “Hello?” “Hello? Wonwoo-yah. It’s me. Cheollie just handed me the phone. Sorry I didn’t tell you. Are you okay with this?” Jeonghan speaks

Wonwoo smiles, “don’t worry about me. You guys talk. I’ll see you in a week, okay?” “Alright,” Jeonghan says, “have fun on the retreat! I’m really proud of you, okay? For your book launch!” Wonwoo giggle, “thanks Hyung,” “See you soon!” Jeonghan chirps “Okay, see you!”

— “Presenting to you the author of the hit series : Through the Stars, MIDAS!” And that’s Wonwoo’s cue to walk on stage, and as daunting as it to face a crowd, he’s excited because the audience begins to cheer loudly, surprised by Wonwoo’s reveal

They’re cheering, they’re hooting, and Wonwoo just smiles, waving at them all When he’s handed over the mic, all worry is forgotten He bows, “Hello, I’m MIDAS,” he says, “and my name is Jeon Wonwoo,” And as applause pours in, he smiles this is the start of his new beginning

— Once he’s off the stage after a brief questionnaire and the announcement of his new book, the event comes to an end and Wonwoo heads to after-party “Hyung!” Hansol basically tackles him into a tight hug, “you were great! They loved you!” Wonwoo hugs him back.

Without Hansol’s patience and support, he never would’ve been able to publish his unfinished manuscript or go public Wonwoo pulls away, “thanks, Hansol-ah,” Hansol grins, “let’s go have lunch!” “Okay,” Wonwoo says, heading to the hall lined with stations for buffet dining

He grabs a plate and decides to simply take a look at all the food before putting it on his plate And he’s just about to fall in love with the aroma when a voice calls out to him “Everything to your liking sir?” And Wonwoo startles, turning, “Yeah I just—“

And Wonwoo freezes when his eyes land upon the tall man smiling at him, his hands crossed behind his back and eyes holding the same tenderness as always “M-Mingyu?” He’s literally star-struck by Mingyu “Hey, Won,” Mingyu smiles Seojun-ssi Youre prayers worked

You*

— Mingyu can’t believe how nervous he is His hands are visibly shaking, so much so that he has to link them behind his back He thinks he might puke out his heart at the rate it’s beating

But all he needs to do is call out his name The name that has been on the tip of his tongue for ages now, waiting to be said, to be acknowledged “Everything to your liking, sir?” he tries to fight the tremor off his voice, to woukd professional, to sound strong

And then the owner of those broad shoulders turns around, easily spooked out of his trance, and Mingyu thought it was only in the movies where time slows down Because right now, as Wonwoo turns around, Mingyu can hear his own heart beat, and he’s frozen in place

What should he say to Wonwoo? What should he do? Mingyu finds no answers to those questions and Wonwoo turns around, and Mingyu watches in real time as those beautiful features turn into an expression of shock What does that shock mean? Is he pleased? Displeased?

“M-Mingyu?” Wonwoo utters, and how Mingyu’s missed that voice, how Wonwoo’s voice in his head has failed to capture the true essence of his real voice, that it was a failed recreation Mingyu clung to for months “Hey, Won,” Won. Won. Won. Mingyu’s Won.

The ball’s in Wonwoo’s court and Mingyu takes the moment to inhale deeply To admire the contours of Wonwoo’s face, to take in all the details he’s missed so dearly Mingyu takes in his appearance, dressed casually, exuding an aura of joy and comfort Mingyu smiles

Mingyu’s eyes drop to Wonwoo’s hands, and he sees a subtle wobble, making him step forth and hold onto Wonwoo’s plate to stop him from dropping it Wonwoo’s far too surprised to even react. And from this distance, Mingyu can smell his cologne, intoxicating as always

“What..what are you doing here?” Wonwoo asks, flustered as he takes a step back from Mingyu, his ears flushed Mingyu purses his lips, “your company hired my catering company to cater for the retreat,” he explains, eager to just be in his presence

The last time Mingyu saw him was when he passed out on the street, with his memories rushing back to him And since then, Mingyu’s…only seen Wonwoo in his dreams A recurring theme that initially haunted him, but it’s something Mingyu’s learned to embrace, to cherish and miss

“Oh,” Wonwoo lowers his gaze, and Mingyu wonders just what’s going on in that beautiful mind of his “You expanded your business to Jeju? Or were you always here? Did you move to Jeju? Sorry I’m rambling,” Wonwoo clears his throat Mingyu chuckles

“No. I’m still in Seoul. Your publishers hired us to go with you guys on this retreat. It must be a grand event for them to go all out. And I was delighted to learn it was your book launch, MIDAS-ssi,” Wonwoo blushes, “oh, yeah, MIDAS,”

“Tell me something,” Mingyu takes a step forward and Wonwoo looks up at him “Are you still Midas because you think everything you touch turns to shit?” Wonwoo’s eyes widen and perhaps he remembers the conversation they had months ago Wonwoo smiles “Not anymore,”

Mingyu grins widely, because this Wonwoo doesn’t look sad and scared anymore He..he looks confident and happy “Can I…Can I hug you?” Mingyu finds himself asking, too overwhelmed to keep the conversation going Though taken aback, Wonwoo just smiles and opens his arms

And Mingyu wastes no time in closing the distance between them and hugging the man tightly Wonwoo gasps, but giggles as he adjusts to Mingyu’s strong grip. And Mingyu thinks perhaps he might end up hurting Wonwoo but when the latter hugs him back with the same vigour, he relaxes

“I’ve missed you so much,” Mingyu confesses, and Wonwoo just hums, the tremors of his chest reverberating through Mingyu’s body, “me too,” And for the first time in several months, Mingyu finally feels at peace

— When Wonwoo gets to his hotel room, he’s practically breathless But he wastes no time in grabbing his phone and dialing a number It rings for a few seconds and — “Yes, Wonwoo-ssi?” Yeonjun speaks up and Wonwoo exhales

“Can you come to my room, right now?” Wonwoo asks, looking through his clothes “Is is something wrong?” Yeonjun asks and Wonwoo gulps, “No I uh, I need fashion advise,”

— Wonwoo’s biggest regret today is that he ran into the man he loves in the worst , most basic clothes possible And he’s not going to make that mistake a second time today when he meets Mingyu for drinks by the bar

The two didn’t get a chance to catch up once they broke that hug, which Wonwoo swears lasted several seconds but he doesn’t let that get his hopes up because Mingyu’s probably still with Wonyoung Hansol had arrived to whisk Wonwoo away to meet some people

And Wonwoo had hurriedly handed Mingyu his card, asking him to text him, which he promptly did, saying “Hi. This is Mingyu. Let’s meet at the bar tonight. 8 ok?” And Wonwoo made sure to clear all and any plans for the day because he cannot miss that 8 o clock rendezvous

Wonwoo’s not going to make any moves on Mingyu But there’s no reason he can’t look good, right? “So, what kind of meeting is this?” Yeonjun asks, sifting through Wonwoo’s clothes

“Uh, I’m meeting someone at the bar,” Yeonjun cocks a brow, “romantically?” Wonwoo gulps, “potentially” he blushes as he says that. Yeonjun smirks, “someone you like, huh?” His blush only darkens, “yes, but I don’t know if he’s…available or not,” he quickly corrects

Yeonjun hums, “so you don’t wanna look like you’re seducing him—“ “Yeonj—“ “And you don’t want to look like a dud, right? Hm. A right balance to allure him but also be decent,” Yeonjun hums and Wonwoo swallows. He’s so nervous he could puke

Yeonjun’s eyes light up, “got it!” — “I think it’s ridiculous that you’re asking your ex girlfriend for fashion advice to seduce your crush,” Wonyoung says over the phone and Mingyu groans, “I’m not going to seduce him!” he clears, “I don’t if he even wants to be seduced?”

Mingyu’s not going to seduce Wonwoo He’s not sure he can even confess to Wonwoo There’s a time and place for everything and now isn’t the time Mingyu’s going to have to wait it out a little, test the waters, get to know Wonwoo and then…maybe… A smile creeps up his face

“You look creepy,” Wonyoung says and Mingyu wipes that smile off his face. He takes the phone and points the camera at his clothes, “what do I wear?” Wonyoung ponders for a while, “that jacket with black pants,” Not Mingyu’s best but he was to work with what he has

“Alright,” he says and tosses the phone on the bed, making Wonyoung click her tongue, “so rude,” she mumbles and Mingyu smirks “Oh, by the way, have you read any of MIDAS’ books?” Wonyoung hums, “I tried to. But they’re not to my liking. Beautiful but too sad. Why?”

Mingyu hums. “Sad?” “Yeah,” Wonyoung sighs, “tragic love stories. Not really my thing. But their works always moved me to tears. Very painfully beautiful, if you get what I mean,” Mingyu purses his lips, “yeah,”

Mingyu picked from the crowd earlier that the new book has a happy ending for a change Mingyu wonders what changed Why the happy ending? He shakes his head and pushes that thought aside He needs to get ready

— It’s 7:30 pm when Mingyu comes down to the bar, eager and nervous. He could use a drink before meeting Wonwoo. Maybe some alcohol would calm the butterflies in his stomach

Speaking of which, the butterflies suddenly begin to flutter around in his stomach when his eyes land on a figure sitting in a booth, sipping on what looks like a cocktail Mingyu’s heart skips a beat. Wonwoo’s early too.

Does he feel the same as Mingyu? Is he nervous too? Is he excited too?? Mingyu contemplates going back to the room and coming down at 8 but…he’s done looking back He heads over to Wonwoo and clears his throat, “hi,” he calls and Wonwoo looks up, smiling. “Hey,”

— Wonwoo stands up as Mingyu shuffles into the seat across him, extending his hand, “Hello, I’m Jeon Wonwoo,” he says Mingyu smirks fondly, “ah, right,” he takes Wonwoo’s hand, “I’m Kim Mingyu, nice to meet you, Jeon Wonwoo-ssi,” Wonwoo giggles, happy to be indulged

Mingyu just loves the sound of Wonwoo’s giggles, and it makes him feel like a teenager with a hopeless crush again because his heart is beating so loudly Once they take their seats, they just sit there shyly sneaking glances at each other

Mingyu had envisioned their reunion to be rather awkward and clunky but it’s…a lot more exciting, and they haven’t even exchanged proper words yet! “So uh, how do we do this?” Mingyu asks, fidgeting with the cutlery placed in front of him, arranging them neatly

He’s a little nervous But Wonwoo’s presence calms him down “Um, uh, we begin with introducing ourselves. I uh, I’m Jeon Wonwoo, and I’m a writer. What about you?” Wonwoo shoots him a small smile. Mingyu smirks, “well, I used to be chef but now I manage a catering business,”

Wonwoo nods, “A catering business huh? That way you can avoid the stress that comes with a chef’s job and continue to pursue your passion,” he reasons and Mingyu’s pleasantly surprised He knew Wonwoo would get it He just smiles knowingly. God he’s missed him

“It’s been amazing,” Mingyu confesses, “I realised I could still enjoy what I liked,” “That’s nice, Mingyu-yah,” Wonwoo smiles, lowering his gaze to his drink. Mingyu takes a deep breath While this approach of meeting as strangers works, they still have a lot to talk about

“Wonwoo-yah,” Mingyu calls, and Wonwoo looks up at him, “yeah?” Mingyu gulps and slides his hand into Wonwoo’s seated on the table. Though startled, Wonwoo doesn’t make an effort to pull his hand away. He simply watches Mingyu’s fingers intertwine with his

His eyes dart up to Mingyu, his fingers tightening around Mingyu’s It makes Mingyu smile and he takes a deep breath, fending of his nervousness. “It’s been over an year since we…” To be honest, it isn’t exactly pleasant to recollect the events of that day

Wonwoo’s expression softens and he nods, “since we last met,” he says, “how is….Wonyoung?” he asks, retreating his hand and placing it on his lap, eyes lowered Mingyu swallows. Right. Wonwoo probably thinks they’re still together…

“She’s fine,” Mingyu doesn’t know how to tell Wonwoo they’re not a thing anymore That the person he truly likes is him “That’s great to hear,” Wonwoo says, pushing his glasses up his nose. There’s the awkwardness The uncomfortable silence “How are you?” Mingyu diverts

“I’m good!” Wonwoo looks up, “I had a book launch. And…” Mingyu’s itching to hear about Dongho Or where Wonwoo stands with Dongho Has he…moved on? Is he still grieving? If so, can Mingyu do anything to make him feel better? “And?” Mingyu probes and Wonwoo smiles, “nothing”

Mingyu sighs inwardly, pursing his lips into a thin smile, “I see,” Why can’t they just talk? Why can’t they just be honest with each other? “Mingyu—“ “Wonwoo—“ They speak up at the same time, and then smile, “you first,” Wonwoo says and Mingyu chuckles, “alright I..”

Mingyu takes a deep breath. “I’m sorry,” Mingyu begins, “for everything. I…I thought you were someone else and… I thought you were Wonyoung and…” Wonwoo’s expression falls. But it’s only momentary and he smiles, “it’s okay,” he says

“I should be the one apologising. For..for not telling you the truth and for…putting you in the hospital in the first place,” his voice quiets down, fingers curling into the sheet on the table Mingyu notices and looks up, “hey, don’t worry about that,”

Wonwoo shakes his head, “no, Mingyu. I…I stuck by you because of guilt and…I’m so sorry. I…please don’t be kind. You…you should be angry at me for taking 18 months, and more of your life away, and for separating you from your lover and then confusing you,”’he rambles

Mingyu licks his lips. Mingyu can’t deny any of that “Wonwoo I…” he interrupts, “I was angry, confused and upset, okay? But…I wasn’t alone, right? You…you were there, it doesn’t matter for what reason but..you were there and it… it helped me so much,”

Wonwoo gasps, eyes misty. Mingyu smiles, feeling a little overwhelmed, “you were there for me when no one else was, okay?” Mingyu takes his hand again, lacing their fingers, “And thats all that matters,” Wonwoo’s lower lip quivers, “So you don’t hate me?”

Mingyu scoffs, averting his gaze, “of course I don’t, you idiot,” his eyes feel heavy, just like his heart. He stares at Wonwoo’s fingers, he feels their make with his, “I could never hate you. Rather I..” he stops himself from spilling the beans and looks up at Wonwoo

Wonwoo looks scared, terrified and confused. Mingyu swallows his words. “Just don’t disappear from my life again, okay?” Mingyu pleads and Wonwoo smiles. “I don’t want to,” Mingyu chuckles, holding back tears. Perhaps he’s missed Wonwoo more than he could ever imagine

“And about Wonyoung,” Mingyu thinks he should tell him, clear things up. His fingers tighten around Wonwoo’s fingers, “her and I broke up. We’re not together,” he says and Wonwoo’s eyes widen, lips parting in a gasp “I…I’m sorry to hear that,” Wonwoo says.

“No it’s okay. We..we were broken up before the accident. After the accident, her and I changed into different people…people who weren’t right for each other,” Mingyu explains. “But more importantly,” Mingyu clears his throat, “I was in love with someone else,”

Mingyu’s going to tell him He needs to come clean “Wonwoo, do you—“ he tightens his grip on Wonwoo’s fingers, but before Mingyu can finish, Wonwoo spooks, his hand hitting the glass which spills his drink into his white turtleneck

“Shit,” Wonwoo jumps to his feet as Mingyu stands the glass and grabs tissues, trying to wipe the drink off Wonwoo’s clothes “You okay?” Mingyu asks, but Wonwoo takes the tissues from his hand and steps back, “yeah I..yeah I’m…” he looks at his messy clothes and sighs

“I think I’ll…I’ll call it a night today,” Wonwoo says, and Mingyu straightens. What? Why? “Yeah uh, definitely. You must be tired,” he says and Wonwoo nods, “yeah um, sorry. I’ll see you tomorrow,” and with that, Wonwoo hurries away And Mingyu wonders where he’d gone wrong

— Mingyu turns and toils in his bed, unable to fall asleep. He can feel warmth seep into the room — the sun’s about to rise and Mingyu hasn’t had a wink of sleep There were many scenarios Mingyu envisioned his reunion with Wonwoo to pan out

But this was not one of them. Did Wonwoo realise that Mingyu was about to confess? Is that why he ran away? Did he realise he doesn’t want to be with Mingyu after all? Mingyu thought Wonwoo liked him. He was super into that kiss after all. Perhaps Mingyu was wrong

He takes a deep breath. Mingyu replays their conversation a hundred times in his mind, but nothing reaps a reason for Wonwoo’s abrupt departure Mingyu sits up on his bed and shakes his head. He needs to be up in an hour anyway.

The company is going camping for the day and they need to send them breakfast and lunch. He’s gonna have to start prep soon. Mingyu stretches, wondering if Wonwoo’s even into stuff like camping. Probably not. Wonwoo would rather stay home and read a book. Or write one

Mingyu giggles as he walks over to his door, opening it to let the sea breeze in. Beach side rooms are simply the best. He walks out on to his balcony, leaving over the rail and taking in the sight of the waves crashing against the sand as the sun rises in the background

But maybe it’s the sleeplessness that’s playing games with Mingyu because when he squints, he finds a figure walking down the beach. He’s pretty close to the beach, and it doesn’t take Mingyu long to realise it’s none other than Wonwoo.

— “Couldn’t sleep?” Mingyu asks after making making sure his breath was even after running here like a madman Wonwoo spooks, turning around to look at Mingyu, “what the— you scared me!” he pouts and Mingyu clears his throat, “sorry,” he says, sitting down beside Wonwoo

Wonwoo sighs and shakes his head, “what are you doing here?” he asks softly, and Mingyu notices an envelope in Wonwoo’s hand. He doesn’t question its presence and answers him, “Couldn’t sleep, saw you, ran here, simple,” Wonwoo chuckles, “idiot. What are you, a dog?”

Wonwoo fidgets with the envelope as Mingyu ponders, “If I were a dog, I’d be a Husky, don’t you think?” Wonwoo studies his face and pokes his eyebrows, “with those brows, yes,” he says and Mingyu giggles, “but isn’t a golden retriever more accurate?”

“Golden retriever?” Mingyu tilts his head in thought and Wonwoo giggles, “beautiful hair, beautiful skin,” Wonwoo ruffles his hair and it makes Mingyu’s heart skips a million beats Mingyu could die but he doesn’t care if it’s because of Wonwoo

He simply closes his eyes and lets Wonwoo ruffle his hair. He loves the feeling, and it makes him want to pass out right here But Wonwoo’s hand was bound to leave his hand at one point and when it does, Mingyu wonders if Wonwoo can see his imaginary droopy puppy ears

Mingyu turns to the sky, and sighs. “It looks like the sun is bathing in the sea,” Wonwoo utters. Mingyu blinks, “it looks like an egg yolk,” he says and Wonwoo bursts out laughing. It’s rare to see Wonwoo laugh out loud like this but it’s always a delight.

Was what he said really that funny?? He laughs so hard he holds his stomach and tumbles to the ground And Wonwoo stays on the ground as his laughter dies down. He takes a deep breath and turns to look at Mingyu “Why am I not surprised you said egg yolk?”

Mingyu shrugs and lies down beside him, “I’m a Chef. Don’t blame me,” Wonwoo chuckles. “Right,” And with that, the two fall silent Moments with Wonwoo are so wonderful Mingyu forgets the things he’s fussing about But once they’re silent, it all floods to his head

“Sorry I left abruptly like that,” Wonwoo says and Mingyu huffs, “I’m sure you and a reason,” Wonwoo turns on his side to look at Mingyu, “No. I’ve hidden too many things from you. Not anymore,” he says, and Mingyu’s eyes widen “O-Oh…” his cheeks warm as Wonwoo stares at him

Wonwoo takes a deep breath as Mingyu turns on his side to face him. “To be honest, I was very overwhelmed, running into you, after all that happened between us. On top of that, were trying to play it cool,” he confesses, fidgeting with the envelope

Mingyu gets that He was too “I just…” wonwoo lowers his gaze, I’m in a place where I’m…better but.. I’m still uncertain about a lot of things…” his voice dies down That’s valid He gets that Is Mingyu a thing he’s uncertain about? Mingyu doesn’t want to know the answer

Mingyu should take it slow then. He doesn’t have to confess either because Wonwoo probably already knows He doesn’t want to spook Wonwoo off, so he’s going to restrain until Wonwoo takes the first step

“What’s in the envelop?” Mingyu asks, and Wonwoo sighs. He sits up, and Mingyu follows. “You probably already know about Dongho-Hyung, right?” Mingyu’s heart twists at that name. “I do. I’m sorry,” Wonwoo smiles, “don’t be,” he sighs, “this is his will,”

Mingyu’s eyes widen, “what?” Wonwoo purses his lips, “he left some money for me. And his parents,” Dongho’s parents, huh? Those assholes “They’ve actually been after this all along,” he says, and Mingyu gasps, “what?”

Wonwoo smirks, “they broke into my apartment, demanded they take his things and what not. And this was what they wanted all along,” Mingyu just listens in awe “Where was it then?” Wonwoo huffs, “in my bookshelf. In my book, buried and out of sight,”

Mingyu gulps, “what are you going to do with it?” Wonwoo stares at the envelope for a while. “Dongho Hyung was kind enough to leave money for his parents despite how they treated him,” he says, bringing out a lighter from his pocket, “and I intend to punish them,”

And just like that, Wonwoo lights the envelope on fire and it bursts into flames Mingyu watches with wide eyes and turns to Wonwoo, who seems more relaxed than ever. At peace Mingyu swallows but he gets it “For Dongho-ssi,” he says and Wonwoo smiles, “For Hyung,”

The two watch as the papers burn and turn to ashes, engulfed by the flames of Wonwoo’s fury “It’s a shame though. All that money,” Mingyu mumbles, scooting closer to Wonwoo Wonwoo shrugs, “If no one claims it in 4 years of his death, the money will he transferred to charity,”

Mingyu smiles. “That’s thoughtful of him,” he says and Wonwoo smiles fondly, “it is,” Mingyu just watches the rays of sun illuminate Wonwoo’s features and his smile He looks gorgeous He looks happy He looks like he’s finally found peace Mingyu smiles.

“I’m proud of you,” Mingyu says and Wonwoo turns to him, “thank you” he says, and Mingyu hums, smiling at the sunrise This is nice This is what Mingyu wants To stay by Wonwoo’s side in moments like this To comfort him Be it as a friend or a lover

Mingyu’s happy with either His eye lids feel heavy as he watches the sunrise, but he gasps when he feels a hand on his, fingers intertwining into his, tightly, firmly, fondly Mingyu turns to look at Wonwoo, who’s already watching him, a tongue darting out to lick his lips

Mingyu simply tightens his grip on Wonwoo and the force of attraction between them does the rest of the work, drawing them closer and closer as their eyes feel heavy and their hearts race Mingyu watches Wonwoo’s eyes flutter shut as he hears him, and his stomach churns excitedly

This is happening Mingyu’s about to lean in and capture those lips with his when a sound startles them “Mingyu Hyung! Hyung! We need to get ready!” Soobin calls from the other side of the beach, and the two pull away, coming to their senses.

“What is it?” Mingyu springs to his feet, face warm when he turns to Soobin waving at him, “we need to start prepping,” he yells and mingyu sighs He turns to Wonwoo who simply pats his cheeks, embarrassed

“I uh, I have to go,” Mingyu says and a Wonwoo nods , “Yeah,” Fuck! Mingyu curses inwardly and walks over to Soobin after greeting Wonwoo one last time “Did I interrupt something important?” Soobin asks when Mingyu hears him The older man simply blushes, “ yup,”

— “Have a nice day,” Mingyu smiles, handing a woman a plate of Crème brûlée. She bows and walks away, and Mingyu takes a deep breath knowing the lunch service is officially over Mingyu turns to his employees and claps, “good job everyone!” They cheer and clap as well

“Once you’re done cleaning up, you can go look around as well, okay? Enjoy your day guys!” Mingyu announces and relief washes over everyone’s faces They get to work quickly and Mingyu smiles “Hyung, we have a crème brûlée left over,” Soobin walks over to him

“I’ll take that,” Mingyu says quickly, taking the item from a surprised Soobin’s hand, “oh okay,” he clears his throat and Mingyu blushes That was a little desperate but whatever “Hyung also I um,” Soobin swallows, “I won’t be available to answer your calls tonight. That good?”

Mingyu cocks a brow, “okay but why?” Soobin blushes at that, “I have a date with someone,” he says and Mingyu doesn’t have to think too hard to guess who the person is

“Okay,” he smiles, “have fun,” and Soobin smiles, bowing. “Say hi to Yeonjun-ssi for me,” he says and Soobin rushes away, ears bright red Idiot Speaking of dates, Mingyu turns around to scan the campsite, eyes searching for a broad shouldered figure hidden in the crowd

Mingyu has to tip toe a little, and squint too but he finally finds the man he’s looking for He holds onto the play of crème brûlée and begins to make his way to the man, who’s stepping out of the crowd to the side, surely to recharge his social battery

Mingyu follows Wonwoo towards the lake, uncrowded, perfect for Wonwoo to take a breather from all the festivities Mingyu’s been noticing from the sidelines how engaged Wonwoo’s been in conversation these days,approached by fans, by colleagues. And he always puts on a brave smile

Mingyu wonders if Wonwoo’s cheeks hurt from all the smiling Wonwoo stops by the lake and stretches. Mingyu grins Wonwoo pats his cheeks, opening and closing his mouth — some sort of a weird mouth exercise Mingyu was right His cheeks do hurt “Hey,” he calls, spooking Wonwoo

“You need to stop sneaking up on me like this!” Wonwoo protests as Mingyu laughs, “and you need stop wandering off to quiet places like this,” he says Wonwoo glares at him momentarily and then smiles, “aren’t you cold? Where’s your jacket?” He asks

Mingyu shrugs, “I’m fine. But what about you? You’re wearing a jacket and a coat over it,” he shuffles closer to Wonwoo, who shoves his hands in his pockets, “I get cold easy,” Mingyu smiles. Now that he thinks about it, Wonwoo’s face is a little pale and his ears red

“It’ll get warmer tomorrow. They said it might rain today so that’s why it’s a little cold,” he says, cupping Wonwoo’s face. To his surprise, Wonwoo leans into the touch, “warm,” he mutters and Mingyu chuckles His heart races so much around wonwoo. Mingyu likes it

When Wonwoo opens his eyes to look at Mingyu, Mingyu’s courage dissipates and he retreats his hand. “I uh, I got you this,” he says, handing Wonwoo the crime brûlée, watching in awe as Wonwoo’s eyes widen “Whoa, I thought you guys didn’t have any extra,” Wonwoo takes the plate

Mingyu shrugs, “I had one,” he smiles and Wonwoo grins. In all honesty, earlier during lunch service, Mingyu had seen Wonwoo take a bite of the desert and like it, so much that he finished it in a few bites “Thank you,” Wonwoo says, digging into it with the spoon.

Mingyu just stands by Wonwoo’s side as the latter quickly devours the bite-sized desert, disappointment washing over his face when he realises its all gone Mingyu bursts out laughing and Wonwoo pouts, “don’t laugh,” he says

“Ah, you’re so cute,” Mingyu says, raising his hands to cup Wonwoo’s ears, shield them from the cold “That I am,” Wonwoo shrugs and Mingyu grins. “Tell me something,” he says, and Wonwoo looks up, “what is it?”

“You came here because you tired of socialising, didn’t you?” Wonwoo sighs, “is it that obvious?” “To me, yes,” he says and Wonwoo exhales. “Social events drain so much energy,” he replies, “but I must attend such events. It’s good for me, professionally,”

Mingyu hums. “Won,” he calls and Wonwoo looks up, “yeah?” Mingyu licks his lips, “about this morning…” There was definitely the possibility of a kiss There was reciprocation from Wonwoo’s side Mingyu wants to… make sure Wonwoo’s eyes widen, blush on his cheek, “yeah?”

Mingyu’s about to speak up when a voice startles rhem “Wonwoo-yah,” the voice calls and Mingyu steps away from Wonwoo on instinct, turning around to see a short man approach them, dressed sophisticatedly

“Ah, Director-nim,” Wonwoo smiles brightly, and Mingyu notes the shift in Wonwoo’s tone and behaviour He’s putting on his professional face The man approaches Wonwoo and wraps an arm around his neck, “where did you wander off to? The editors were looking for you,” he says

Wonwoo smiles, escaping from the headlock, “I uh—“ Before he can come up with an excuse, Mingyu speaks up, “I pulled him away. Sorry about that,” Mingyu says, putting on a professional smile. The director turns to Mingyu, “and who might you be?”

“He’s my acquaintance. And the head of the Caterers we hired,” Wonwoo says and the Director’s eyes widen, “oh! I see! Thank you for the delicious food! You must be Kim Mingyu-ssi then, who owns that restaurant in Gangnam!” Mingyu smiles, “ah, yes. That’s me,”

The Director laughs heartily, “my, my. My daughter loves dining there. You have a wonderful skill, Mingyu-ssi,” Mingyu bows, “thank you so much,” he says, happy to be recognised “Tell me something, why did you name your Restaurant Shooting Stars?” he asks

Mingyu smiles, “ah, it’s named after someone I know. She helped me set up the restaurant and her name means ‘to shine forever’ so,” The Director grins, “that’s wonderful,” he says and turns to Wonwoo, “how are you two acquainted?” Wonwoo purses his lips in a small smile

“We met at the hospital,” Wonwoo says The Director hums, “that’s great. Wonwoo’s partner passed away two years ago, and he’s been rather sorrowful since then. But he’s been a ball of sunshine these days, I’m happy for him,”

Mingyu flinches inwardly and his eyes dart to Wonwoo, who simply laughs, “ah, that’s thanks to your support, Director-nim,” he says and the director laughs as well Mingyu joins in with a half hearted laugh, eyes shifting between the two men

But soon he feels the need to intervene “Ah, may I whisk Wonwoo away for the night, Director-ssi?” Mingyu asks and the Director steps away from Wonwoo, “ah, yes, why not! See you two tomorrow!” he says and walks away Wonwoo and Mingyu watch him join the others in the crowd

“Let’s go take a walk,” Mingyu nudges Wonwoo’s arm, and the other nods, “okay,” The two walk in silence for a while, going deeper into the woods. Mingyu wonders what’s Wonwoo’s thinking They approach a small gazebo and Wonwoo suggests they sit down there

Mingyu decides to break the silence when he looks at Wonwoo, “did what he said upset you?” Wonwoo turns to him, surprised, “what? No I…no it didn’t,” he says and Mingyu licks his lips, “you’ve fallen silent so I thought you were upset,”

Wonwoo smirks, “no. Why would I be upset when I’m with you?” Mingyu’s heart skips a beat and he turns to look at the endless jungle ahead, blushing Nothing will ever prepare him for the things Wonwoo says with a straight face

“Is it weird that I’m not smiling?” Wonwoo asks suddenly and Mingyu gasps, “no, that’s not what I meant,” he corrects and Wonwoo giggles The man then scoots closer to Mingyu as thunder tears through the sky

“We should get going,” Mingyu says but pauses when Wonwoo places his head on his shoulder He doesn’t utter a word and simply freezes in his spot “Can I say something?” Wonwoo asks “Yeah,” Wonwoo takes a deep breath. “It’s tiring,” he says “What is?” “To pretend,”

Mingyu takes a deep breath. “What are you pretending about, Won?” he gently rests his head on Wonwoo’s, watching as rain begins to fall “About being happy,” Mingyu gulps “Are you not happy?”

“That’s the problem. I am, but no one believes me unless I’m laughing and jumping around,” Oh Mingyu doesn’t really have a solution for that. That’s how this world operates “well, you don’t have to pretend around me,” he says, “you can keep a poker face with me and relax,”

Wonwoo chuckles, “I know that,” he says, “but I assure you I’m not faking smiles around you,” Mingyu swallows, “really?” “Yeah,” Wonwoo says, taking a deep breath. Mingyu smiles to himself. He’s glad.

“I like you, Mingyu-yah,” Wonwoo says suddenly, and Mingyu’s heart rate spikes. “Yeah me too. You’re a good friend,” he says, and Wonwoo tenses And then he relaxes “Yeah. A good friend,” he reiterates and Mingyu bites his lip They sit like that for a while, silent, thinking

“We should go before the rain intensifies,” Mingyu stands up and steps out into the rain, looking back at Wonwoo who’s staring at him in complete silence “Coming?” Mingyu lends his hand and Wonwoo swallows and steps out into the rain, “yeah,” he says, taking Mingyu’s hand

— They’re drenched by the time they get to the campsite, stepping into Wonwoo’s room for the day Wonwoo turns on the heater as Mingyu steps out of his wet shoes Taking a walk in the rain doesn’t sound so bad until you realise the looming risk of a horrible cold

“I only have this that I can lend to you,” Wonwoo says, offering Mingyu a towel along with a pair of shorts and a shirt. Mingyu smiles, “it’s okay. Thank you,” he says, eyes dropping to Wonwoo’s wet figure, making his shirt hug his body Mingyu looks away, heart racing

Wonwoo steps into the washroom, and Mingyu uses the opportunity to do get changed out here in the bedroom before Wonwoo comes out He wants to avoid any awkward circumstances He neatly wrings dry his clothes and folds them, setting them aside before sitting on the bed

When Wonwoo steps out, Mingyu can’t help but stare at the man He’s never seen him in casuals like this — shorts and a Tee. It’s a refreshing look on Wonwoo. He dries his hair as he walks out, and Mingyu smiles, extending his towel to him, “can you dry my hair?”

Wonwoo smiles, “sure,” He steps into the space between Mingyu’s legs and takes the towel from his hands, placing it on his head He begins to dry Mingyu’s hair gently, so much so that Mingyu feels like he could fall asleep This..feels really nice

“You used to do this for me at the hospital,” Mingyu says and Wonwoo snorts, “you’re right,” Mingyu chuckles, enjoying the feeling And then, silence “You..” he begins, “you try to be happy because if you don’t look happy, they’ll keep asking you about it, right?”

Wonwoo’s hands slow down and Mingyu wishes he could see the face Wonwoo’s making right now. Is he happy? Sad? Hurt? Offended? “Yeah,” Wonwoo says simply and Mingyu sighs. “Do you miss him?” Mingyu finds himself asking. “I do,” Wonwoo replies instantly, I’m always going to,”

Mingyu’s shoulders droop That’s only valid “But that doesn’t mean I’m still hung up on him,” Wonwoo says, and Mingyu tenses, “you’re not?” Wonwoo hums,“no. I think I’m in a different chapter in my life now. I want to focus on that,” Mingyu smiles, “and what chapter is that?”

Wonwoo’s hands on his head pause and suddenly the towel is lifted off Mingyu’s face, revealing Wonwoo’s face. Their eyes lock and Mingyu takes a deep breath as the towel slides down his head and drops to the floor

“What I said earlier,” Wonwoo begins, voice quiet, “I didn’t mean as a good friend. I meant that…romantically,” Mingyu’s eyes widen at the confession “What?” He blabbers and Wonwoo swallows, brows furrowed, “Kim Mingyu, are you really that dense?”

Mingyu springs to his feet when Wonwoo begins to pull away upon getting no answer from Mingyu He holds Wonwoo’s hand, his heart racing in his chest, beating in his ears, “say it again,” Mingyu says and Wonwoo blushes, clenching his fists, “I like you, you idiot,”

And Mingyu swoops down to capture those trembling lips with his Though taken aback, Wonwoo quickly begins to reciprocate, the peck turning into a kiss and the kiss into something more Mingyu’s waited months for this feeling, for these lips, for this man

Mingyu loops his arms around Wonwoo’s waist, pulling the man flush against his chest, till their hearts begin to beat in sync, beat loudly and hurriedly Mingyu hums into the kiss when Wonwoo’s fingers tangle in his hair, when his lips nibble on Mingyu’s lips

It’s pleasantly surprising how tuned their bodies are to each other, Mingyu’s tongue sliding in the moment Wonwoo parts his lips The latter squeaks out a little moan, circling his arms around Mingyu’s neck to hold him securely in place

Eager and enthusiastic as their lips and tongues become one, Wonwoo tugs and tugs on Mingyu’s collar until the two stumble on to the bed Their kiss breaks only momentarily because Wonwoo yanks Mingyu onto himself, locking their lips in a sloppy kiss

Mingyu’s hips slot against Wonwoo’s and his hands begin to roam the taut body, squeezing and groping, eliciting moans from the man Mingyu finally pulls away from the kiss and takes a moment to admire the swollen lips and flushed face, before leaning down to kiss his neck

“Won, I like you, Won,” Mingyu gasps fervently, lapping at the skin, “my Won, my lovely Won,” he says, revelling in the taste of the skin And Mingyu’s about to recapture those lips when Wonwoo pushes Mingyu away gently. The two pause, catching their breaths.

“What—“ “We should stop,” Wonwoo says. Mingyu gasps, “sorry,” he shuffles off Wonwoo, “I’m so sorry. I got carried away— I’m so—“ “No that’s not it,” Wonwoo says and Mingyu calms down, “then what is it?”

Wonwoo swallows and stands up. He takes Mingyu’s hands in his. “Shooting stars,” he says Mingyu frowns, “my restaurant?” Wonwoo purses his lips, “you named it after Wonyoung, didn’t you?” Oh.. “Yeah,” Mingyu says. Wonwoo sighs.

“Mingyu-yah, I…I’m selfish,” he begins, “and I..I don’t want to be loved…half heartedly,” What? “I…I want to know if the reason you like me is because of me or if it’s because I reminded you of..Wonyoung,” Mingyu’s eyes widen “It’s you,” Mingyu says, “it’s only you,”

Wonwoo lowers his gaze and takes a deep breath, “can you prove that to me?” he asks, voice hesitant Mingyu swallows. Prove? How can he prove it to Wonwoo that he fell for him and not the idea of him??

“You can’t, right?” Wonwoo says, loosening his hold on Mingyu’s hands “I will!” Mingyu says, tightening his hold on Wonwoo, “just…give me some time and I’ll…I’ll tell you,” Mingyu understands Wonwoo’s concerns. After all, he too… Wonwoo smiles at him sadly.

“I’m sorry I’m selfish,” he whispers Mingyu shakes his head, “it’s okay,” he swallows, “because I’m willing to give you everything,” Wonwoo’s lips tremble and he hugs Mingyu, “come see me when you figure it out,” His heart is beating loudly Mingyu hugs him back, “done,”

— “Thank you for dining with us,” Mingyu says, flashing a bright smile to a company executive. He leaves without a word and Mingyu turns to grab the rest of the coconut croquettes from behind.

“Thank you for dining with us,” he turns around when he feels another person waiting, and his professional smile turns into a real one when he realises the person standing before him is Wonwoo, watching him with tender eyes.

“Thank you for cooking,” Wonwoo says, extending his hand and Mingyu purses his lips into a thing smug smirk, “of course,” he places the croquet in Wonwoo’s hand, sneakily sliding his finger against Wonwoo’s, making the other flinch and blush.

Wonwoo retreats his hand and clears his throat, eyeing Mingyu knowingly, “flirt,” he mutters under his breath and walks away, leaving Mingyu with a smile that hurts his cheeks and a heart that won’t calm down

Mingyu watches Wonwoo’s silhouette disappear into the crowd with a stupid grin on his face, almost oblivious of the guest waiting for her desert. When he notices her presence, he apologises and hands her her desert, eyes once again searching for the familiar figure in the crowd

He spots Wonwoo in the distance, engaged in conversation but at the same time his eyes glance towards Mingyu, a small shy smile on his lips. When their eyes meet, he winks and Mingyu swears he’d be on the floor if it weren’t for his job that he needed to act professional for

Mingyu lowers his gaze and mindlessly hands the desert to the next guest. “What happened to focusing on the guests?” Soobin’s voice startles Mingyu, who gasps and realises its Soobin he’d handed the croquet to.

“Sorry” Mingyu clears his throat, embarrassed. Soobin’s probably caught on to whatever has been happening between Mingyu and Wonwoo. Soobin sighs. “We’re done for the day, Hyung. And also, someone kept calling you,” Soobin hands Mingyu his phone

“I’ll take over. You can head back for today,” Soobin says and Mingyu smiles, “Thanks,” Mingyu removes his apron and grabs his phone, dialing. “Hey, Wonyoung,” he answers when she picks up the phone.

“Hey, Gyu. All good?” she asks, and Mingyu nods, “yeah. What’s up? Three missed calls from you. You okay?” Mingyu scans the crowd, eyes searching for Wonwoo. “Yeah I am. I just uh, yknow, today is..yknow,” she sounds hesitant, unsure. Mingyu frowns, “what is today?”

Wonyoung sighs, “Seungcheol Hyung reminded me. Your accident, Gyu,” And then it clicks. 3 years ago today Mingyu met with an accident and…

“Right,” Mingyu swallows, “it slipped my mind,” he says and she chuckles, “that’s good, actually. We were worried you wouldn’t be feeling too well. But it’s good that you are,” Mingyu exhales, “yeah. I’ve been occupied. I didn’t even realise that it’s been three years since—“

And Mingyu comes to a devastating realisation It’s also Dongho’s third death anniversary. Mingyu’s eyes dart around the crowd to look for Wonwoo, but he’s unable to locate him. Shit.

“Gyu?” Wonyoung calls and Mingyu clicks his tongue. It’s been a couple days since Wonwoo asked Mingyu to prove to him that he truly loves him. Since there, they’ve been going back and forth with each other — freon flirty glances to standing miles apart like they’re strangers.

It’s the last day of the retreat. And Mingyu’s nowhere near having proof. “Wonyoung, I—“ How should he say this? Wonyoung and he are still in a rather delicate place. But Wonwoo and He… “Yeah?”

Mingyu purses his lips. Wonyoung and Mingyu are friends first. “Wonwoo kind of…gave me al ultimatum,” Mingyu sighs, “he…he asked me to prove I like him for him and not because he resembles you,”

Wonyoung falls silent, and Mingyu thinks he’s messed up by asking her this question. “Mingyu-yah, we already talked about this. You just have to show him that him and I aren’t the same,” Mingyu swallows.

“Mingyu?” she calls and Mingyu groans, “you’re of no help!” He scolds and cuts the call. Damn it. He should take some time off and then think about it. His phone rings again, interrupting his thoughts. “Yeah?” he answers

“Next time you cut my call like that, I’ll make sure you regret it,” Wonyoung threatens and Mingyu sighs, “sorry, what is it?” Wonyoung hums. “You said you were worried about Wonwoo seeing Dongho in you,” and Mingyu tenses. That’s right. He’s still worried

“What about it?” Wonyoung sighs, “you ask him to clarify that as well. For the benefit of you both,” Mingyu halts. It’s a little scary to ask Wonwoo that. Was Wonwoo this scared when he had to ask Mingyu that?

But Wonyoung’s right. They should get that clear before they jump into things. “Okay,” Mingyu says, “but first I have something else to do,” “What’s that?”

— “Hey,” Wonwoo’s voice spooks Mingyu out of his trance, but plasters a smile on his face as he turns around to look at the man he’d asked to come to the park. “Hey,” Mingyu springs to his feet as Wonwoo walks over to him, a beige coat hanging over his frame.

“You said you wanted to talk?” Wonwoo asks, expectant, and Mingyu purses his lips. “Yeah but…not just about what you’re thinking,” Mingyu smiles and Wonwoo’s eyes widen, “huh?” Mingyu swallows.

“I realised that today is the day I…I had an accident, three years ago,” And Wonwoo’s eyes widen. “But that’s not the point. The point is that…it’s also the day—“ “Dongho Hyung died, I know,” Wonwoo whispers quietly, lowering his gaze and Mingyu gulps.

“Yeah. I just um, I just wanted to talk about how you were,” Mingyu says, the atmosphere suddenly glum. Wonwoo nods slowly, “I’m good. It’s been 3 years, Mingyu-yah,” he smiles, and it’s that smile that takes Mingyu aback because he’s seen that smile elsewhere

Mingyu takes Wonwoo’s hand, it’s shivering. “You don’t have to fake it with me, Won. It’s okay to not be okay,” Mingyu says and Wonwoo yanks his hand back, like he’d touched fire, “I said I’m fine,” Mingyu swallows thickly.

“You’re not—“ “And what makes you think that?!” Wonwoo snaps, the rims of his eyes red. Mingyu purses his lips. “Won—“

“The person I like is you! Not Dongho Hyung! So why does it matter? I’m fine!” Wonwoo bursts and Mingyu exhales out shakily, seeing Wonwoo all shaken. He’s never seen him like this.

“Won, that’s not what I’m saying. But I know it doesn’t get easier. Dongho Hyung was someone you loved for a long time and it’s okay to miss him and feel bad about it. It doesn’t take away from what you feel for me. I want you to heal.” Mingyu explains.

He’s spent nights wondering about how Wonwoo coped with loss, if he had anyone to console him, or if he was just going to suppress it. Mingyu’s beginning to think Wonwoo chose the last option. He may have moved on from the love but he hasn’t moved on from Dongho’s absence.

“Why do we even have to talk about this? Dongho’s gone and it’s been three years! What makes you think I’m still hurting?!” Wonwoo bites and Mingyu just sighs, looking at Wonwoo with tender eyes.

“Because you’re crying, Won,” Mingyu states and Wonwoo gasps, hand flying to his cheek to feel the warm wetness of his tears. Wonwoo seems surprised by his tears and his outburst, turning to Mingyu as fat beads of tears trickle down his face

Mingyu’s heart breaks at the sight. A part of him regrets making Wonwoo confront his reality like this. But Mingyu didn’t want Wonwoo to ignore his love for Dongho. He didn’t want Wonwoo to suppress his love for Dongho. Mingyu wants Wonwoo to accept it as a part of him.

Mingyu takes Wonwoo’s trembling hand into his, squeezing gently to let him know he’s here. When Wonwoo’s eyes dart to Mingyu’s, the latter smiles. “I want you to cope, Won. In a healthy way,” Mingyu says, “and I want to be by your side through it all,”

Wonwoo lowers his gaze as tears continue to fall. He doesn’t resist Mingyu anymore. He simply leans in presses his face against Mingyu’s shoulder, “I really love you,” he says, and Mingyu chuckles, “I know. But it still hurts, doesn’t it?”

Wonwoo closes his eyes, sniffling, “it does,” he whispers, “and it’s so hard to pretend I’ve moved on and that I’m happy,” Mingyu cages Wonwoo in a warm hug, comforting him.

“And when I don’t pretend, people pity and pry. I don’t want that,” Wonwoo’s voice breaks and Mingyu’s tears begin to well in his eyes. “You don’t have to pretend with me,” Mingyu assures and Wonwoo swallows. He hugs Mingyu back.

“I…I want you to know that…I love you, Mingyu-yah,” Wonwoo pulls back to look at Mingyu, “and I want you to know that it’s not because you reminded me of Dongho Hyung,” Mingyu gasps. “Won—“

“You two are nothing alike. The only thing similar about you two is the fact that I’m willing to give my heart and soul to you guys,” Wonwoo whispers, and a small gasp leaves Mingyu’s lips.

“I really love you,” Wonwoo hugs him, “I love you, I love you, I love you so much,” he tightens his embrace as Mingyu feels overwhelmed. He smiles, hugging Wonwoo tightly, who’s being so vulnerable and honest right now.

“But…” Wonwoo’s hold loosens, “I’m so scared about the future,” he says, “what if I continue to hurt? What if…you realise I’m not the one for you? What if I’m left all alone? I don’t think k could handle that a third time, Mingyu-yah,” Wonwoo’s voice trembles

Mingyu raises his hand to wipe the tears off Wonwoo’s face, “you asked me to prove it to you, right?” Wonwoo’s eyes widen when he realises what Mingyu’s talking about.

Mingyu simply smiles, caressing Wonwoo’s face, “You don’t like Dandelions,” he says, and Wonwoo’s face twists into that of realisation.

Mingyu kisses Wonwoo back, and he tastes salt, he taste sweet, he tastes Wonwoo’s love, his fear. Mingyu wants to make them all his for life. Wonwoo breaks the kiss, face smeared with tears, “will you really love me?” Wonwoo asks, and Mingyu let’s a tear escape his eyes, “yes,”

Wonwoo takes a deep breath, “I don’t like socialising,” he says and Mingyu chuckles, “I know,” “Im a huge introvert,” “I know,” “I love books” “I know” “I have a hard time conveying my emotions,” Mingyu smiles, “I know,”

Wonwoo sobs, “I’m broken,” he says and Mingyu smiles, “to you, they’re all reasons not to love you. But to me, they’re reasons to love you all the more,” Wonwoo lowers his gaze, leaning into Mingyu, sobbing silently in his shoulder.

“I’ll need you more than you need me,” Wonwoo says. “That’s okay,” Mingyu wraps his arms around him. Wonwoo’s still crying. It makes Mingyu cry. But he smiles through the tears, caressing Wonwoo’s face, “I want it all. Your love, your sorrow, your joy. I’ll make them mine,”

Wonwoo hugs Mingyu tightly, smearing his cost with tears, trembling all over. “Are you sure?” Wonwoo looks up, and Mingyu grins, “Jeon Wonwoo, hereafter, do you promise to be mine?”

And Wonwoo finally breaks into a smile now that Kim Mingyu has clawed his way through the barriers Wonwoo had trapped himself in Wonwoo simply leans into the warmth of Mingyu’s embrace and hugs him tightly, bowing to never let go.

“I promise,” Wonwoo says, looking up at the man who loves him dearly, unconditionally. Mingyu smiles, but his eyes convey a million more emotions Wonwoo plans on decoding through the rest of his life.

And when Mingyu leans in to press a kiss against Wonwoo’s lips, he realises this is forever. Dongho might have been Wonwoo’s first love. But Mingyu’s going to be his last. Wonwoo wouldn’t have it any other way.

— THE END —

Rts and likes are appreciated You can support me here : http://ko-fi.com/jkkittae Qrt with your thoughts or leave a message here : https://tellonym.me/minkyuwoo Spotify playlist - https://open.spotify.com/playlist/2TQaL4ViqTh20wwMXADuju?si=Vcc7utK7Sbyafx2AAwOXow…

— E P I L O G U E — When Wonwoo hears the doorbell, he doesn’t mean to jog to the door that quickly But he can’t help that he’s a little excited. Before opening the door, Wonwoo checks himself in the mirror and dusts his clothes. And when he opens the door, he smiles

He sees a bouquet of flowers, massive and diverse. Mingyu’s head pops out from the side, lips pulled into a smile, “hey,” he calls and Wonwoo grins, taking the flowers, “hey yourself,” Mingyu grins as he steps in, “you ready?” he asks

Nero walks over to Mingyu, rubbing his face against Mingyu’s leg and the man lowers himself to scratch the underside of his chin Nero begins to purr and Mingyu chuckles. “Let me put these in a vase,” Wonwoo says, searching for the item “You nervous?” Mingyu asks from the door

Well, yes. Wonwoo’s both excited and a little worried. “Jeonghan Hyung invited us. We can’t just say no,” Wonwoo reasons, finding the vase. He fills it with water and places it on the table, inserting the flowers into it.

“I wish I was a kid. I could say my mom said no and escape,” Mingyu says, walking into the kitchen with Nero in his arms, getting all too comfortable. Wonwoo gasps and snatches Nero from Mingyu, “ah, this little— you can’t use Nero sleeping on you as an excuse again!”

Mingyu laughs, “hey! He looked so comfortable sleeping on me. I couldn’t bear to disturb him,” Wonwoo glares at Nero, booping his nose, “naughty cat,” he scolds and puts Nero down, who hurries off to Wonwoo’s bedroom. Wonwoo sighs and turns to Mingyu

But the latter surprises him by yanking Wonwoo in for a chaste kiss to the lips Wonwoo smiles into the kiss, “we’re gonna be late,” he says as Mingyu’s lips divert to his cheeks and eyes and nose, making Wonwoo giggle. “No one goes on time to a party,” Mingyu reasons

Wonwoo pushes his hand to Mingyu’s lips, gently putting distance between them, “Mingyu-ssi, save the kisses for tonight, okay? Let’s go to lunch first,” Mingyu pouts, “now don’t you go back on that promise,” and Wonwoo smiles, “I won’t,”

— Wonwoo and Mingyu have both been particularly dreading this day They’ve been dating a few months now and all’s well! But there were issues that needed to be addressed— and well, Jeonghan wants to address them. Over lunch A one hour commitment at the least Sigh

“Sorry we’re late,” Mingyu and Wonwoo look up to see Jeonghan walk towards them, folllwed by Seungcheol and Wonyoung. Wonwoo swallows. He’s seen Wonyoung’s photos. But they don’t do justice to her grace. Pale skin, sharp feline eyes and an evergreen smile Beautiful

Wonwoo stands up from where he’s sitting and walks around the table, pulling a chair for Wonyoung to get seated at. Though startled, she smiles, “thank you, Wonwoo-ssi,” she says, taking a seat and Wonwoo smiles, walking back to his seat

“How come you two never do this for me?” Wonyoung asks Seungcheol and Mingyu, who keep their heads lowered in shame Wonwoo chuckles and Wonyoung smiles, “it’s good to finally meet you, Wonwoo-ssi,” “Likewise, Wonyoung-ssi,” Wonwoo bows

“Should we order?” Mingyu clears his throat, raising his menu. “Wait, before that um,” Jeonghan speaks up, garnering everyone’s attention, “there’s something I want to say,” Wonwoo knows what’s coming, but Mingyu and Wonyoung seem clueless

“Cheollie and I are back together now,” Jeonghan announces, taking both Mingyu and Wonyoung aback, while Wonwoo only smiles Seungcheol clears his throat, “we cleared up all and any misunderstandings and apologised to each other. We want to move on,” he takes Jeonghan’s hand

Wonyoung is the first to speak up, “congratulations!” She says, hugging Jeonghan, who’s sitting right next to her. He just smiles. Wonwoo’s guessing whatever doubts he had about Seungcheol being in love with Wonyoung have been cleared.

“Congratulations, Jeonghan Hyung, Seungcheol Hyung,” Wonwoo says, and while Heonghan smiles shyly at him, Seungcheol keeps his gaze lowered, nodding, “thanks,” he mutters. Wonwoo swallows and brings his eyes down to the menu. Seungcheol and Wonwoo haven’t talked since then

“We should celebrate! Let’s order some drinks! Won, can you pass me the drinks menu?” Mingyu says. Wonyoung and Wonwoo both reach out to the menu, pausing when their fingers touch. Awkward silence befalls them, but when Wonyoung starts laughing, so do the rest

— “I heard their Crème brûlées are good,” Wonyoung startles Wonwoo, who’s wracking his mind over which dessert to eat. “Oh?” Wonwoo simply picks up the part of crème brûlée and sets it on his dinner plate. Wonyoung smiles. “Not going to take anything?” Wonwoo asks

“Nah, I’m not fond of desserts,” she says and Wonwoo hums. “Let’s head back,” she says and Wonwoo nods, “okay,” Their walk back is silent, but not uncomfortable. “Thanks for coming today. I wasn’t sure you would,” wonwoo says.

Wonyoung frowns, “why wouldn’t I want to? I’d never say no to free lunch,” she says and Wonwoo giggles “No I…I mean…I thought my presence would make you uncomfortable— after everything that happened,” Wonwoo says. Truth is, he’d been feeling incredibly guilty about it

Realisation washes over Wonyoung’s face but she shows no sign of discomfort or hurt. She just smiles. “Mingyu and I were over long before you entered the picture, Wonwoo-ssi. What we had was nice but I wasn’t meant to be,” she explains Wonwoo sighs, “I know but—“

“After reuniting, we realised that we were trying to cling to memories instead of love. It was only logical we break up. Plus, we’re both happy. So I don’t think it’s anything to dwell on now,” Wonyoung says Wonwoo swallows. Wonyoung is so wise. “He’s happy?” Wonwoo asks

Wonyoung grins, “more than I’ve ever seen. You make him happy, Wonwoo-ssi. Don’t forget that, hm?” she pats his arm as they approach the table. Wonwoo shoots her a smile. A few minutes with Wonyoung and all his worries disappeared

“Crème brûlée, huh?” Mingyu smiles when Wonwoo takes his seat beside him. “Hm. Wonyoung ssi said it’s nice,” Wonwoo says and Mingyu turns to Wonyoung with a cocked brow. She just winks at him.

Mingyu turns to Wonwoo, “I don’t want you to hang out with her,” he takes Wonwoo’s hand and laces their fingers, and the man simply laughs — “Tomorrow? What time?” Wonwoo asks, pacing the alley behind the restaurant. “10 AM. That good?” Hansol asks over the phone

Wonwoo hums, “yeah, that works,” he smiles, “thanks for letting me know, Hansol-ah,” he says. Hansol hums in response and cuts the call. Wonwoo’s about to head in when he turns around to find Seungcheol standing there, hands in his pockets

“Oh, um, Hi,” Wonwoo clears his throat. He knew this was coming. It’s best he gets it over with and moves on Seungcheol smiles softly, “hey,” For a while, that’s all they say and simply stand in awkward silence. “Actually—“ “I’m sorry,” Seungcheol says and Wonwoo gasps

Wonwoo purses his lip. He knows that in this situation, he shouldn’t say anything else “I was a jerk to you for…months together and…I completely disregarded your circumstances and and said…so many mean things to you that I can’t even..repeat. I’m so sorry, Wonwoo-yah,”

“It’s okay, Hyung. You were worried about your friend, whom I hit with my car,” he huffs apologetically. “Still, it didn’t justify me treating you like that, not after you apologised and made amends. I’m sorry. I’m really sorry,” he says and Wonwoo smiles

“Hyung, I already told you, didn’t I? I forgive you,” wonwoo says, and Seungcheol exhales “You might have. But I haven’t. It will take time. Regardless, I hope we can be friends,” Seungcheol extends his hand, and Wonwoo smiles as he shakes it, “sir sure,”

Seungcheol smiles, relieved “You really love Jeonghan Hyung, right?” Wonwoo asks one last question before they go in Seungcheol smiles, “I do,” Wonwoo grins. “That’s all that matters,”

— After they see Wonyoung off, Mingyu turns to Wonwoo, “I’ll get the car, stay here,” he says, but Wonwoo grabs his wrist, stopping him. “What’s up?” Mingyu asks, worry in his eyes. Wonwoo smiles, “I have someplace I wanna go. Let’s walk there,” he says, lacing their hands

Mingyu doesn’t question it and simply smiles, “okay,” he says, letting Wonwoo lead the way to wherever they’re going “It was nice meeting everyone,” Wonwoo says, and Mingyu scoffs, “it was but I’m 78% sure Wonyoung is trying to steal you from me,” Wonwoo laughs

He shuffles closer into Mingyu’s side, “don’t worry, she told me she has someone she likes in her NGO,” Mingyu raises his brows, “that’s nice,” Wonwoo smiles, “it is,” The sun’s beginning to set as the two walk down the street, hand in hand, ignoring curious glances

“Seungcheol Hyung apologised to me,” Wonwoo says. Mingyu hums, “I was hoping he would,” Wonwoo doesn’t refute that. Seungcheol did say some mean things to Wonwoo, which he shouldn’t have under many circumstances But he clearly seems to regret it so.. it’s okay.

“Where are we going?” Mingyu asks as they turn a corner “To meet someone,” Wonwoo says as they near their destination. Mingyu wonders who it could be until he sees a cemetery He purses his lips and braces himself He knows where they’re going

— Mingyu and Wonwoo stand in front of a grave, silent but hands linked “Why are we here, Won?” Mingyu asks his lover, and Wonwoo shrugs, “I wanted you two to meet,” Mingyu licks his lips, staring at Dongho’s name carved on the stone

Mingyu clears his throat and bows, “It’s nice to finally meet you, Dongho-ssi,” Wonwoo gasps which turns into a flurry of giggles, “what are you doing?” Mingyu shushes him, “we’re talking,” And at that, Wonwoo seals his lips.

Mingyu exhales, “I am Kim Mingyu. I have a degree in culinary arts. I own a restaurant and currently run a catering business too. I’m an Aries, if that’s relevant, and I’m told I have the patience of a saint. I hope that reassures you that Wonwoo’s in capable hands,”

Wonwoo clicks his tongue and nudges him, shy. “Babe, don’t disturb,” Mingyu says and Wonwoo smiles. Idiot. “Anyway um, Dongho-ssi. Thank you for taking care of Wonwoo all these years. But I would formally like to to ask you to hand over that responsibility to me,”

Wonwoo chuckles. “And I promise you,” Mingyu glances at Wonwoo before turning to Dongho, “I’ll keep him happy. And I assure you I am in this forever,” Wonwoo leans his head on Mingyu’s shoulder. “So, is that okay?” Mingyu asks, and Wonwoo smiles.

Of course there isn’t going to be a response. But a pleasant breeze blows in and a dandelion lands on Mingyu’s head. Wonwoo’s eyes widen as Mingyu awaits an answer, fidgeting with his fingers, oblivious to the dandelion on his head.

Mingyu turns to Wonwoo, “do you think he’s okay with this?” Wonwoo smiles, leaning in to kiss Mingyu, cherishing the feeling of warmth and contentment. “He is,” Wonwoo replies. Mingyu grins, “I love you,” he says, and Wonwoo melts in his embrace, “I love you too,” Forever

— T H E. E N D —